Fast Pacific Progress Beckons for Vendée Globe Skippers

Leaders locked in a tight battle

Charlie Dalin aboard MACIF Santé Prévoyance remains in the lead, but his closest rival, Yoann Richomme (PAPREC ARKÉA), has significantly closed the gap to just 80 miles. This narrowing margin sets the stage for an exciting duel, reminiscent of their shared history in the Skipper MACIF Figaro programme.

The position map as at today 16/12 07:37. Dalin leads Richomme and then Simon – all of whom are past the bottom of New Zealand!

Dalin reflected on the challenge with characteristic calm, noting, “We will probably meet again at some point. I was expecting a round-the-world fight with him, and so that is what we are going to start again!” Meanwhile, Seb Simon (Groupe Dubreuil) trails closely in third, navigating the same tricky conditions.

Chasing pack regains momentum

Behind the leaders, the chasing pack is finally making gains after enduring frustratingly slow progress in the high-pressure ridge. Sailors like Samantha Davies (Initiatives Coeur), Justine Mettraux (TeamWork-Team Snef), and Boris Herrmann (Malizia Seaexplorer) have reported speeds exceeding 21 knots, while Thomas Ruyant (VULNERABLE, 4th) waits for the same favourable conditions to reach him.

Photo sent from the boat VULNERABLE skipper Thomas Ruyant (FRA) during the Vendee Globe sailing race on December 15, 2024. Photo credit: skipper Thomas Ruyant

As the fleet stretches from Ruyant in 4th to Samantha Davies in 13th, weather expert Christian Dumard predicts a rapid Pacific crossing once they clear the ridge. Jérémie Beyou (Charal, 5th) summarised the mindset required: “Of course, it’s infuriating, but you have to be a bit philosophical and make do with what you have.”

Struggles at the back of the fleet

The challenges of the Vendée Globe are ever-present, particularly for those in the rear. Hungarian skipper Szabolcs Weöres (New Europe, 38th) is grappling with a broken port D2 shroud while navigating gusts of up to 40 knots near the South Atlantic. His team reassured race management, stating, “Szabolcs is not injured, and the boat is not damaged; he is working to keep his rigging safe.”

In 17th place, Damien Seguin (Groupe APICIL) is finally enjoying calmer conditions after enduring strong winds and big seas. Despite his injuries and hull damage, Seguin remains optimistic about implementing permanent repairs.

Others, like Kojiro Shiraishi (DMG MORI Global One, 32nd) and Denis Van Weynbergh (D’Ieteren Group, 37th), are contending with weather-related issues and technical setbacks, emphasising the relentless nature of the race.

Photo sent from the boat DMG MORI Global One during the Vendee Globe sailing race on December 15, 2024. Photo credit: skipper Kojiro Shiraishi

Celebration in the roaring 40s

Not all moments are about hardship. Sébastien Marsset (FOUSSIER, 24th) took time to celebrate his 40th birthday amid the roaring 40s, marking it as a high point in his life.

“I’ve been working for four years to be here. In fact, it’s a bit like my midlife crisis! I’ve never been a fan of birthdays, but this one is the best—I’m simply where I’d like to be,” Marsset shared. His team surprised him with chocolates, a fun wig, and heartfelt messages, reminding him of the small joys that make this race special.

Weather sets the stage

As the fleet progresses, weather remains the deciding factor. A developing depression promises favourable winds for the mid-fleet skippers, offering a chance to cover ground quickly and potentially reshuffle the leaderboard.

With every mile sailed, the Vendée Globe proves why it’s the ultimate test of endurance, skill, and passion. Whether celebrating personal milestones or overcoming immense challenges, each skipper is carving their own story into the fabric of this legendary race.