Almost at a standstill due to lack of wind, the leaders saw their pursuers rush towards them, which upset the ranking after passing the Canary Islands.
France Télévisions – Sports Editorial
Published on 15/11/2024 09:05
Reading time: 1min
“I will be able to stay barefoot and in a swimsuit until the equator”jokes Boris Herrmann (Malizia-Seaexplorer). The German skipper, who moved up to third place in the Vendée Globe at 7 a.m. on Friday November 15, suffered, like his competitors at the head of the race, very light winds. Weather conditions which have allowed the fleet to tighten over the last 24 hours.
Yoann Richomme (Paprec-Arkéa) and Charlie Dalin (Macif), who were racing in the lead on Thursday, were the first to be stopped by the light wind, and saw other skippers rushing towards them. They are demoted to fifth and sixth places respectively. Sam Goodchild (Vulnerable), still remaining in the leading pack, took the opportunity to take the lead, ahead of Nicolas Lunven (Holcim-PRB), well on his way since his speed record reached on Wednesday. The two skippers chose a trajectory a little further east of that of their competitors to pass the Canaries.
These calm weather conditions at least have the merit of allowing sailors to catch up on some sleep and take advantage of the temperatures. But they must remain on guard due to the stormy squall. At times the wind increases suddenly, with changes in direction, lasting a few minutes. “We still have an instability of the wind which is incredible, I have rarely sailed with wind that is so unstable in strength and direction.” comments Paul Meilhat (Biotherm). The fleet is now heading towards Cape Verde.
