Final stretch: the Vendée Globe enters its closing days

Dalin edges out of the doldrums

Charlie Dalin emerged from the doldrums, a challenging zone of squalls and light winds, maintaining his lead as Richomme navigates the same area. The gap, which had narrowed to 78 miles, is expected to widen slightly as Dalin moves into more favourable conditions. Reflecting on his race, Dalin shared:

“The race will be played out on a set of parameters: the weather situation, the condition of the boat, and skippers’ choices. It’s intense, but I’m enjoying it—it’s just a game!”

While Dalin eyes the finish, Sébastien Simon (Groupe Dubreuil) holds 3rd place securely, navigating a western route past Brazil and preparing to enter the doldrums.

Photo sent from the boat MACIF Santé Prévoyance during the Vendee Globe sailing race on January 06, 2025. Photo credit: skipper Charlie Dalin

Fierce battles across the fleet

The mid-fleet sees heated competition as Jean Le Cam (17th) closes in on Romain Attanasio (14th) and Damien Seguin (15th). Le Cam’s tactical expertise and favourable weather have earned him the nickname “King Jean,” as he confidently edges closer.

Photo of the boat Tout Commence en Finistère – Armor Lux skipper Jean le Cam (FRA), off Falkland islands, during the Vendee Globe sailing race and shot from the plane of Marielou Delignières, on January 5, 2025. Photo credit: Marielou Delignières

Meanwhile, Clarisse Crémer (12th) battles a shoulder injury, continuing her race despite discomfort. By contrast, Sam Davies (13th) reports being in peak condition, thanks to meticulous preparation. She reflects on her journey:

“I’m absolutely loving it! Life is hard onboard, but it’s all worth it.”

Further back, Benjamin Ferré and the “banditos” group, including Arnaud Boissières and Violette Dorange, prepare to round Cape Horn. Dorange, taking a cautious approach, remarked on the privilege of participating in the race, calling it “incredible.”

Cape Horn milestones

Cape Horn continues to serve as a pivotal point for the fleet. Isabelle Joschke (18th) and Giancarlo Pedote (19th) rounded the cape and are progressing into the South Atlantic. Behind them, several competitors are approaching the legendary landmark under varying conditions.

For retired competitors, the journey continues in different forms. Louis Burton (Bureau Vallée) arrived at his home port in Saint Malo after a lengthy voyage from South Africa. Yannick Bestaven (Maître Coq V), the defending champion, resumed his circumnavigation from Ushuaia, determined to complete his journey despite being out of the race.

“It’s not what I planned, but I’ll do everything to make the end of this world tour as beautiful as possible,” Bestaven said.

Countdown to the finish

As the fleet edges closer to the finish line in Les Sables-d’Olonne, the pressure mounts for the leading skippers. Charlie Dalin remains in control, but with Yoann Richomme close behind and Sébastien Simon holding steady in 3rd, the race’s final days promise intense competition and unpredictable outcomes.

With skippers pushing themselves and their boats to the limit, the Vendée Globe once again showcases the courage, resilience, and determination that define this extraordinary race.