Vendée Globe Leaders Tighten the Gap as Challenges Mount for the Fleet

Leaders on equal footing

Richomme and Dalin are separated by just six miles as they navigate the tricky South Atlantic weather. With speeds of 5-7 knots, both skippers are inching through the semi-stationary cold front. Sebastien Simon (Groupe Dubreuil) has used this slowdown to his advantage, closing the gap to 319 miles after being over 700 miles behind at Cape Horn.

Simon, who now holds a commanding 1,100-mile lead over fourth-placed Thomas Ruyant (VULNERABLE), remains focused on consistent sailing to protect his position.

Photo sent from the boat Groupe Dubreuil during the Vendee Globe sailing race on December 30, 2024. Photo credit: skipper Sébastien Simon

Goodchild’s gains

Sam Goodchild (VULNERABLE) executed a bold tactical move, passing through the Le Maire Strait west of Staten Island, allowing him to claw back miles on the fleet. Reflecting on his strategy, Goodchild remarked:

“The risk was minimal, and the objective was to catch up. It’s a success, I guess.”

Photo sent from the boat VULNERABLE SG during the Vendee Globe sailing race on December 28, 2024. Photo credit: skipper Sam Goodchild

Goodchild also highlighted the mental relief of leaving the Southern Ocean, a phase he described as a “powerful life experience.” However, he remains cautious, recalling the unpredictable conditions that follow Cape Horn.

Joschke’s uphill battle

Isabelle Joschke (MACSF) has faced a string of setbacks, including a broken starboard foil, keel sensor issues, and mainsail damage. The loss of the foil has significantly impacted her boat’s stability, forcing her to adapt to a new, more cautious mode of sailing.

Photo sent from the boat MACSF during the Vendee Globe sailing race on December 29, 2024. Photo credit: skipper Isabelle Joschke

“The foil isn’t just about speed—it’s part of the boat’s balance. This changes everything,” Joschke explained.

Despite her challenges, Joschke remains determined to continue the race step by step, acknowledging the uphill battle she faces.

South Atlantic challenges

The fleet is bracing for complex and shifting weather conditions in the South Atlantic. Forecasts suggest 40-knot upwind winds and tricky low-pressure systems that could force skippers into tactical gambles. Goodchild noted the uncertainty:

“It’s about minimising risk while racing tactically. The South Atlantic will leave us with some memories, that’s for sure.”

The race ahead

Vendée Globe – nearly a compete loop for the leader pack. The leaders are quickly coming up the East of South America.

With over 7,000 miles to the finish line, the Vendée Globe remains unpredictable. The leaders are locked in a tight duel, while the chasing pack navigates the fine line between risk and reward. As the skippers contend with fatigue, weather, and technical challenges, the race continues to embody the relentless spirit of solo ocean racing.