Two decades of rivalry
The competition between Dalin and Richomme goes beyond this race. Their history dates back nearly 20 years, beginning with their first encounter on the water in 2005. As alumni of the Skipper MACIF programme, the duo share not only camaraderie but also a fierce determination to outdo one another.
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“Yoann is my number one rival,” Dalin remarked during the Vendée Globe LIVE! broadcast. “We’ve been competing for so long, and this is shaping up to be another tough battle, especially up the Atlantic. I managed to lead at Good Hope and Leeuwin, and now I want to take Cape Horn too.”
Challenging conditions
Cape Horn, known for its relentless weather, isn’t expected to disappoint. Forecasts indicate over 30 knots of wind, with gusts exceeding 35 knots. Dalin expressed cautious optimism, anticipating a daylight passage close to the rocky outcrop.
“In absolute terms, it’s not huge compared to what this place can deliver,” he noted. “I’m looking forward to being back in the Atlantic, though. After the cold of the Great South, I can’t wait to start shedding layers of clothing.”
The leaders’ conditions are markedly different from those mid-fleet, where sixth-placed Jérémie Beyou (Charal) describes an exhausting fight to maintain position. “We have to push as hard as possible to avoid being caught,” Beyou explained. “The Atlantic might offer opportunities, but it’s hard to look ahead without fearing disappointment.”
Echoes of past duels
The close contest between Dalin and Richomme recalls the legendary rivalry between François Gabart and Armel Le Cléac’h during the 2012 race. Gabart, then a rookie, narrowly led at Cape Horn before claiming victory as the youngest Vendée Globe winner at 27.
For Dalin, the desire to lead at Cape Horn stems partly from personal frustration. In the 2020-21 edition, he passed the landmark at night, unable to witness its stark beauty. Now, with daylight ahead, he’s poised to rewrite his narrative.
Setting sights on Les Sables
As the fleet rounds Cape Horn, meteorologists suggest an advantageous weather pattern for the leaders as they climb the Atlantic. With projections estimating a return to Les Sables d’Olonne in just 21 or 22 days, this year’s Vendée Globe could deliver a record-breaking finish.
“The best is yet to come,” Dalin quipped, capturing the optimistic spirit of this edition. Whether he or Richomme leads at Cape Horn, their battle up the Atlantic promises to be just as enthralling as their current duel in the Southern Ocean.
From Cape Horn’s rugged majesty to the shores of Vendée, the race is far from over. For Dalin, Richomme, and the fleet chasing them, the Atlantic holds the key to both redemption and glory.
