A commanding lead
After 40 days at sea, Dalin leads a closely matched trio, followed by Yoann Richomme (PAPREC ARKÉA) and Sébastien Simon (Groupe Dubreuil). Together, they enjoy a significant 800-mile advantage over the chasing group, thanks in part to their ability to capitalise on a weather system that has kept them ahead.
“Everything is going well,” says Dalin, reflecting on his position at the front of the fleet. “We are at the front of the front and have a great angle towards the east.”
Having endured a 36-hour sail repair earlier in the week, Dalin is relieved to focus on strategic decisions, such as managing a wind rotation and planning his Atlantic routing. “It’s easier to manage three boats than a fleet,” he explains, buoyed by the state of his boat and the prospects ahead.
A split among the pursuers
Behind the leading trio, a chasing group extends from Thomas Ruyant (VULNERABLE) in 4th to Justine Mettraux (TeamWork-Team Snef) in 11th. While progressing in the same weather system as the leaders, they face a challenging gap that may widen in the coming days.
Charlie Dalin updates us live on Starlink.
Further back, competitors like Clarisse Crémer (L’Occitane en Provence, 12th) and Samantha Davies (Initiatives Cœur, 13th) have faced less favourable conditions, including a frustrating close-hauled route around a low-pressure system. The distance between this group and the leaders now exceeds 900 miles, underscoring the relentless pace at the front.
Skipper of Initiatives Coeur Samantha Davies talks
Fleet weather consultant Christian Dumard predicts more splits ahead, particularly as the rear of the fleet, positioned under New Zealand, navigates a mix of upwind and southerly routes to escape a tangle of depressions and windless zones.
Reflections from the Southern Ocean
Amidst the intensity of the race, Boris Herrmann (Malizia – SeaExplorer, 8th) offers a rare glimpse into the emotional side of solo sailing. For Herrmann, this second Vendée Globe feels markedly different from his debut.
“Being able to be connected, to contact loved ones, gives the feeling of being connected with the world,” he shares. Describing the Southern Ocean as a “great exotic phase,” Herrmann reflects on moments of joy that break up the daily grind: “Earlier, I stayed on deck and was able to enjoy it. These are little moments of happiness that offer a nice alternative to our locked-up lives.”
Looking ahead
As the race approaches the Atlantic leg, all eyes remain on Dalin, who appears well-poised for the challenges ahead. With a formidable lead and his boat in prime condition, he embodies the blend of skill and determination that defines the Vendée Globe.
Yet, in a race where fortunes can shift with the wind, the Southern Ocean continues to remind every sailor of its power. Whether leading the pack or battling at the back, each competitor is navigating not just the seas but also their own limits.
Stay tuned for updates as the Vendée Globe fleet pushes ever closer to its ultimate goal – and the finish line in Les Sables-d’Olonne.
