Charlie Dalin wins Vendée Globe, smashes record by nine days

Charlie Dalin has secured victory in one of the world’s toughest races, the Vendée Globe, a non-stop, solo dash around the world, setting an incredible new record on his foiling IMOCA Macif Santé Prévoyance, knocking nine days off the previous record.

- Heather Prentice

French sailor Dalin crossed the finish line on 14 January at Les Sables d’Olonne with a total time of 64 days 19 hours and 22 minutes, meaning the 40-year-old skipper shattered the previous race record set in 2016. The victory makes Dalin the first skipper ever to cross the finish line in first place in two consecutive Vendée Globe races.

Throughout the race, Dalin was locked in a thrilling battle with longtime offshore racing rival Yoann Richomme, skipper of Paprec Arkéa, who secured an impressive second place in his first run at the Vendée in 65 days, 18 hours, and 10 minutes.

Sébastien Simon on Groupe Dubreuil claimed third place after 67 days and 12 hours, setting a new 24-hour distance record of 615.33 miles along the way. Britain’s Sam Goodchild aboard Vulnerable was in fourth place, but yet to finish at time of going to print.