2024-’25 Vendée Globe to showcase record number of international sailors
The upcoming 2024-’25 Vendée Globe solo round-the-world race is set to feature a record number of non-French sailors, with 14 out of 40 competitors coming from countries such as Switzerland, Hungary, Great Britain, Italy, New Zealand, Japan, USA, Belgium, Germany, and China. Among them are top contenders like Boris Herrmann from Germany and Sam Davies and Sam Goodchild from Great Britain, all vying to make history as the first non-French winner of the race.
The President of the IMOCA Class, Antoine Mermod, expressed delight at the international participation in this edition, noting the growing appeal of the event on a global scale. These non-French sailors bring a diverse set of backgrounds and experiences to the race, with each aiming to push themselves to their limits and conquer the challenging course.
Hungarian sailor Szabolcs Weöres, inspired by the legacy of his mentor Nándor Fa, is looking to make a mark in his second Vendée Globe attempt. Representing Switzerland are Alan Roura, Oliver Heer, and Justine Mettraux, who share a passion for offshore sailing and are eager to compete against each other while also supporting one another throughout the race.
Italian sailor Giancarlo Pedote, based in France for several years, is preparing to take on the Vendée Globe with a revamped boat and a dedicated fan base back home. With significant modifications to his vessel, Pedote is confident in his ability to showcase a strong performance in the demanding conditions of the race.
The 2024 Vendée Globe also sees a prominent presence from Asia, with Japanese sailor Kojiro Shiraishi and Chinese sailor Jingkun Xu joining the international fleet in their quest for personal and professional achievements. These non-French skippers, alongside others from various nations, will compete in one of the most prestigious and challenging yacht races in the world, showcasing the true spirit of global competition and camaraderie.
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Oliver Hayes, a seasoned sailor and marine journalist from Southampton, has a profound love for the sea that has shaped his career. Holding a degree in Marine Journalism from the University of Portsmouth, Oliver is celebrated for his compelling and insightful storytelling. His work vividly captures the excitement of sailing and the rich maritime heritage of the United Kingdom, making him a respected figure in the sailing community. When not writing, Oliver enjoys exploring the British Isles’ diverse coastlines and participating in local regattas, always on the lookout for his next nautical adventure.