Fastnet Race Victory: SVR-Lazartigue Crosses Finish Line after High-Speed Sail Home (Approximately 35 Knots)
In the thrilling 2025 Rolex Fastnet Race, the Ultime trimaran SVR-Lazartigue clinched the multihull line honours, marking a successful defence of their title from the previous edition. The boat, skippered by Thomas Coville and featuring crew members like Tom Laperche, demonstrated both tactical prowess and exceptional speed throughout the race.
The unique accomplishment of SVR-Lazartigue was its dominant performance. The boat was the first to round the Fastnet Rock and then surged ahead with speeds over 35 knots on the final leg. Despite the race time being longer than their 2023 record due to lighter winds, their strategic choices and consistent lead secured the win.
The crew navigated varying wind conditions with endurance and teamwork, showcasing their skills. Notable sailor Sam Goodhild, a crew member on Banque Populaire XI, found driving the multihulls fun and exciting once they were locked in and going at high speeds. However, Banque Populaire XI made a tactical error by going offshore after Portland, resulting in a catch-up race for the rest of the Celtic Sea leg.
Four other Ultime trimarans, including Banque Populaire XI, Sodebo, and Actual Ultim 4, were among the boats that started the race. Banque Populaire XI, skippered by Armel Le Cléac'h, finished second, 45 minutes behind SVR-Lazartigue. Actual Ultim 4 finished third.
The 2025 Rolex Fastnet Race had a record-sized fleet of 444 boats, and negotiating a safe exit of the Solent was critical due to the large fleet and spectator craft. The race was mentally and physically demanding for the six and seven-man teams on the 100ft trimarans, with many maneuvers, including tacks, board up, board down, and sail changes, required throughout.
Pete Burling, Kiwi America's Cup helmsman, joined SVR-Lazartigue for the race, adding to their formidable crew. The boat crossed the line after 1 day, 17 hours, 18 minutes, and 4 seconds of racing, further emphasising their impressive performance.
In summary, the 2025 Rolex Fastnet Race was a testament to the skill, endurance, and teamwork of the crews. SVR-Lazartigue, with its early lead, top speed on the home stretch, and consistent performance, demonstrated why it is a force to be reckoned with in the world of sailing.
[1] Rolex Fastnet Race Official Website: https://www.rolexfastnetrace.com/ [2] Sailing Today: https://www.sailingtoday.co.uk/ [3] Yacht Racing Life: https://www.yachtracinglife.co.uk/ [4] Seahorse Magazine: https://www.seahorsemagazine.com/
Engaging in an exhilarating competition, SVR-Lazartigue claimed victory in the 2025 Rolex Fastnet Race, showcasing their dominance in the world of sports. The team's strategic choices, coupled with their exceptional speed, secured a decisive win over the fourteen other participants.
){kind=link}