Vendée Globe leaders near the Azores as battles rage across the fleet

Dalin holds the lead

Charlie Dalin maintains a 130-mile lead over Richomme, with both pushing their boats to the limit as they navigate the trade winds. The Azores high promises lighter winds, requiring precise routing and constant focus to maintain momentum.

Richomme shared his thoughts:

“It’s going fast—21 knots on average—but I’m trying to keep up the pace. This is a round-the-world race, not just a transatlantic, and the boat is in great shape. It’s magical!”

Growing anticipation in les sables d’olonne

The finish line in Les Sables d’Olonne is just days away, and excitement is building in the host town. The race village is taking shape, and the media is abuzz with predictions and analysis of the Dalin-Richomme duel.

Third place secured?

Sébastien Simon (Groupe Dubreuil) crossed the equator early today, entering the doldrums. Although he should avoid significant delays, he is unlikely to catch the leading duo due to their advantageous low-pressure system.

Photo sent from the boat Groupe Dubreuil during the Vendee Globe sailing race on January 07, 2024. Photo credit: skipper Sébastien Simon

Fierce mid-fleet battles

Positions from fourth to 10th remain fiercely contested. Jérémie Beyou (Charal, 4th) and Sam Goodchild (VULNERABLE, 5th) lead the western group, while Paul Meilhat (Biotherm, 9th) and Nicolas Lunven (Holcim-PRB, 10th) pursue an eastern route.

Boris Herrmann (Malizia-Seaexplorer, 6th) faced mast repairs after backstay issues but continues to fight for a top position. Sam Goodchild expressed the challenge of navigating this phase:

“The squalls are nasty and strong. I chose the western option as less risky, but every move is critical now.”

Cape Horn challenges

In the South Atlantic, Benjamin Ferré (Monnoyeur – DUO for a JOB) rounded Cape Horn this morning, marking a significant milestone in his first Vendée Globe. The group behind him, including Violette Dorange (Devenir, 28th), is bracing for a severe depression with 40-50 knot winds.

Guirec Soudée (Freelance.com, 24th) presses on despite harsh conditions, planning mast repairs after passing Cape Horn. With determination, he noted:

“I prefer to take what I see coming rather than risk uncertain headwinds later. It’s all part of the game!”

Our boy Conrad Colman, the only kiwi skipper in the race, have Cape Horn in his sight!

Resilience across the fleet

The Vendée Globe continues to test the resilience and skill of every skipper. Éric Bellion (Stand As One – Altavia, 27th) faces forestay pin damage but remains optimistic about repairs, embodying the grit and determination that defines this race.

As the leaders close in on the Azores, the battle for victory intensifies. Behind them, every sailor is focused on navigating their unique challenges, showcasing the unyielding spirit of this iconic event.