NEWS

A single maneuver will decide the fate of the Vendee Globe Cup

Share on social media

Just over 40 miles separate Vendee Globe solo world number two Alex Thomson from race leader Armel Le Cléacq. With less than 400 miles to go to the finish line, the fate of the win would depend on one decisive maneuver.

Le Cleac and Thomson have gone toe-to-toe for all 24,000 miles they have managed since the start of the circumnavigation on November 6. Their path to the finish line in Les Sables d'Olonne was blocked by an anticyclone that forced the sailors to go north.

However, the high-pressure centre will soon shift to the north-east towards the south of England, opening the gates for the competitors to the finish line. Crucial to the race will be getting the timing right for the tack.

This morning, Le Kleac and Thomson were sailing in a waning wind of 10-12 knots in the latitude of Brest in Brittany. As they got closer to shore, the wind direction would shift to the northeast. At this point, it will be possible to change course and reach the finish line to Le Sables d'Olonne.

Both sailors are expected to reach the finish line on Thursday.

Share on social media