Final Storm Looms as Vendée Globe Skippers Push for the Finish Line

Goodchild’s Battle for Fourth

British skipper Sam Goodchild (VULNERABLE) leads the charge for fourth place, locked in a tight battle with Jérémie Beyou (Charal). The two skippers, separated by only a mile this afternoon, have been in close contention since the South Atlantic. Despite the high stakes, Goodchild is prioritising safety over risk:

“I want to keep it safe and sail sensibly. If the others catch up, so be it. I just don’t want to take any unnecessary risks,” said Goodchild.

Photo sent from the boat HUMAN Immobilier during the Vendee Globe sailing race on January 19, 2024. Photo credit: skipper Antoine Cornic

Photo sent from the boat Charal during the Vendee Globe sailing race on January 13, 2025. Photo credit: skipper Jérémie Beyou

His cautious yet tactical approach has served him well, from leading the race in the Atlantic to his climb up the rankings near Cab Frio. Now, as he braces for a wild storm, Goodchild is preparing his boat and himself for the final push:

“It’s going to be fairly short-lived but intense. We’ll face strong winds and a big sea state. I’ve seen similar conditions before, so I’ll be careful and keep going.”

Strategic Dilemmas and Tight Margins

With 1500 miles to go, the options for skippers are limited. Taking a southern route might avoid the worst of the storm but risks encountering upwind conditions in 30-35 knots. Slowing down could result in falling behind the next depression in the Bay of Biscay.

As Nico Lunven (HOLCIM PRB) put it:

“There’s no ideal solution. The key is to adapt, prioritise safety, and manage the sail plan effectively.”

For Goodchild and Beyou, navigating the storm’s centre could offer a faster route to the finish, but it will require precision and resilience.

Ferré’s Grit and Determination

Photo sent from the boat Lazare during the Vendee Globe sailing race on January 19, 2024. Photo by skipper Tanguy Le Turquais Monnoyeur – DUO for a JOB skipper Benjamin Ferré (FRA) in sight by night

Meanwhile, Benjamin Ferré (Monnoyeur – Duo for a Job) is locked in a fierce battle with Tanguy Le Turquais (Lazaire) for daggerboard dominance. Despite overcoming technical issues, including a damaged hook, Ferré remains focused:

“It’s strange to sail with such stress, but I’m not sparing any effort. We’re so close I could shout to Tanguy.”

Ferré’s relentless pursuit of a strong finish highlights the grit required to navigate this gruelling race.

Safety in Adversity

Across the fleet, skippers are managing exhaustion, wear on equipment, and unpredictable conditions. With limited escape routes, the focus remains on survival and crossing the finish line.

As the fleet approaches Les Sables d’Olonne, the coming days will test the sailors’ skills, strategies, and endurance. Will Goodchild maintain his lead over Beyou? Can Ferré overcome his technical challenges to secure a top position? One thing is certain: the Vendée Globe continues to deliver suspense and high-stakes drama until the very end.