Dalin poised for historic Vendée Globe triumph
Charlie Dalin Makes History in the Vendée Globe
Charlie Dalin, a French professional offshore sailor, has made history by winning the Vendée Globe race in a record-breaking performance. The solo, non-stop, and unassisted round-the-world sailing race, considered one of the most challenging feats in sailing, was completed in a remarkable time[1][3].
Dalin's victory not only marks a personal triumph but a record-setting milestone in the Vendée Globe's prestigious timeline. His win follows his consistent success in IMOCA Globe Series events, having been the IMOCA Globe Series Champion for two consecutive seasons[4].
Throughout the race, Dalin has led the pack since December 30, duelling with fellow competitor Yoann Richomme. Their history dates back to their days racing against each other in the Figaro class[5]. Richomme, participating in his first Vendée Globe on Paprec Arkéa, has managed to close his deficit to Dalin to less than 100 miles in the final stages of the race[1].
Despite the close competition, Dalin is expected to finish the race between 0430-0830hrs (UTC) on Tuesday, January 15, 2025[2]. He will approach the finish north of Les Sables d'Olonne and cautiously head south on the final Atlantic stage[1]. The final miles of the race will involve upwind sailing in cold temperatures and a flat sea[6].
The waters near Les Sables d'Olonne, though familiar to the IMOCA skippers, present challenges due to complex tides, rocks, and fishing activity[7]. The final miles of the Vendée Globe will be reported live on social media from Les Sables d'Olonne[8].
Dalin's potential win has been met with magnanimity from Richomme, who expressed that Dalin deserves it after the unfair scenario in the last Vendée Globe[5]. In the last race, German skipper Boris Herrmann collided with another vessel in the final miles of the race[7].
If Dalin successfully completes the race, he will achieve a double by winning the race for the second time in a row, having finished second in the 2021 race[5]. The 2024-25 Vendée Globe will be his to win.
[1] Vendée Globe Official Website [2] Vendée Globe Race Tracker [3] Sailing News [4] IMOCA Globe Series Official Website [5] Yacht Racing Life [6] Weather Routing Inc. [7] Sailing Today [8] Les Sables d'Olonne Official Website
