The McDonalds will be the race's first husband and wife co-skippers

The vastly experienced couple were both in charge of their own boats in the last Volvo Ocean Race in 2002 and have decided to harness their combined experience.

Neal took over as skipper of Assa Abloy after the first leg, and guided his team to second overall, five points behind winners Illbruck.

American-born Lisa skippered an all-female crew on Amer Sports Too, which came eighth.

There is an intuition between us that goes with years of sailing and living together Neal McDonald

Neal, 40, said: "For both of us the Volvo Ocean Race is unfinished business. We have been involved in five campaigns between us but this time we want to win.

"We have decided to sail together because we know it works. There is an intuition between us that goes with years of sailing and living together.

"The Volvo Ocean Race really matters to us and I know we can win it."

Interview with the McDonalds

Lisa added: "We have sailed in the same events, often as competitors. For us it is our job - we just happen to do the same sort of job at the same level.

"However, this event is not just a job, it is part of your life and winning the race is our life."

The pair have assembled a team of financial and legal experts as well as media and marketing professionals to boost their search for commercial partners for a multi-million-pound three-year campaign.

"We intend to not only win the race on the water, but also to give our commercial partners the best possible return on their investment by delivering a complete sports marketing package," said Lisa.

The 2005 Volvo Ocean Race will follow the traditional clipper route around the world, sailing from west to east leaving the Capes of Good Hope and Horn to port.