A promising race interrupted
The incident occurred during the night, while Simon was catching some much-needed sleep. Woken by the boat broaching, he rushed to ease the sheets but quickly realised something was amiss.
“I went to check on deck, and the foil was broken at the elbow, the most curved part of the foil,” Simon recounted. Despite the disruption, he remains optimistic: “I’m going to go all the way. The race isn’t over.”
Simon had been riding high after setting a new solo monohull record—covering 615.33 nautical miles in just 24 hours. This mechanical failure, however, has forced him to recalibrate his approach as he fights to maintain his position.
The impact of the damage
The loss of the starboard foil is a significant handicap, reducing Simon’s speed by an estimated 30% on port tack. While this will undoubtedly affect his performance, the skipper is undeterred, focusing on managing his remaining resources and seizing tactical opportunities.
“It’s a mechanical sport. Now it’s about staying focused and having fun,” Simon added, echoing the resilience required in this gruelling race.
This is not Simon’s first brush with foil damage. In the 2020 Vendée Globe, a similar issue forced him to retire. This time, however, he is determined to cross the finish line.
Challenges ahead for the fleet
Meanwhile, Charlie Dalin, the race leader aboard MACIF Santé Prévoyance, is navigating his own set of challenges. A giant low-pressure system has tested his mettle, but Dalin managed to stay ahead, maintaining a lead of 250–500 nautical miles.
“Several times, I felt the breath of the depression on my neck. Fortunately, it went well,” Dalin shared, noting that time is flying as he approaches Cape Leeuwin.
Further back, Yoann Richomme (PAPREC ARKÉA) is optimistic about his chances of closing the gap. “500 miles ahead for Charlie, he’s still catchable!” Richomme quipped, pointing to the unpredictable weather as a potential equaliser.
Resilience defines the vendée globe
Sébastien Simon’s determination to keep racing despite the damage is a testament to the spirit of the Vendée Globe. This round-the-world solo race is as much a test of mental fortitude as it is of sailing skill.
As the fleet races toward Cape Horn, every skipper must adapt to the challenges thrown their way. For Simon, the fight to stay competitive is far from over. In the words of the man himself:
“The round-the-world race still has some great surprises in store for us.”
Stay tuned to see how this thrilling chapter unfolds in one of the most demanding sporting events on the planet.
