Szabolcs Weöres bows out of the Vendée Globe after rigging failure

A critical blow to the rig

The D2 shroud, one of the rig’s most delicate yet vital components, supports the upper mast, forestay, and sails, ensuring stability in high-stress conditions. Its failure left New Europe’s mast at risk of collapse, making it unsafe for Weöres to continue racing.

Although Weöres, a professional rigger, worked tirelessly to find a solution, none of his innovative fixes could guarantee the rig’s integrity. Combined with previous race setbacks—including damage to the mainsail, the loss of the A7 gennaker, and a knockdown early in the race—continuing was no longer viable.

“The D2 shroud is the thinnest cable in the system, yet it bears immense loads,” Weöres explained. “Once compromised, the risk of mast failure is unavoidable, particularly in strong winds.”

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A cascade of challenges

The New Europe team suspects the D2 failure originated during a knockdown earlier in the race when the masthead struck the water. Despite all rigging components being replaced in 2024 and meticulously calibrated, the shock load may have caused undetectable internal damage to the shroud.

“This hidden weakness likely worsened under the relentless strain of strong winds and mast vibrations as the race progressed,” noted the technical team. The situation was exacerbated by a torn A7 gennaker tangled around the forestay, placing further unpredictable loads on the rig over two stormy days.

An emotional farewell

For Weöres, the decision to retire was agonising.

“This was one of the hardest decisions of my life,” he said. “I have worked so hard for so many years just to get to the start line of the Vendée Globe, with the dream of completing this incredible journey around the world. To step away now is devastating.”

Currently, Szabolcs is en route to Cape Town, South Africa, where he anticipates arriving on 17 December.

A campaign of courage

While his race ended prematurely, Szabolcs Weöres’s determination and grit have earned him admiration from sailors and supporters alike, particularly in his native Hungary. The New Europe team shared their pride in their skipper, commending his resilience and accomplishments.

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“Szabolcs’s journey has inspired many in Hungary and beyond,” the team noted. “Though his Vendée Globe has come to an early conclusion, his courage and commitment will leave a lasting legacy.”

Updates to come

Further news regarding New Europe’s arrival in Cape Town and the condition of the yacht will be shared as soon as we have it.