Fastnet 2026: The Race to Cherbourg Begins

The thrilling atmosphere of the 2025 Rolex Fastnet Race marks a significant chapter in the world of competitive sailing. Recent developments have revealed the leaders rounding the iconic Fastnet Rock, setting the stage for a high-speed chase towards Cherbourg.

Leading the Charge

The race leaders have successfully rounded the Fastnet Rock after an intensive 1 day and 4 hours of racing, showcasing a remarkable blend of skill and endurance. Initial conditions were relatively slow, with even the high-performance Ultimes struggling at speeds of 8-10 knots for parts of the first day. However, once past the Rock, the leaders embraced fast sailing, reaching speeds exceeding 30 knots.

Coming in first was the 2023 race champion, the Ultime SVR-Lazartigue, which was deftly managed by seasoned sailors Tom Laperche and Franck Cammas. Without facing significant challenges since the outset of the race, the SVR-Lazartigue rounded the rock at 16:22 BST and swiftly accelerated to exceed 35 knots.

Following closely was Armel Le Cléac’h on the Ultime Banque Populaire XI, who rounded the landmark just over an hour later. These two boats are currently making their way southeast in a brisk 25-knot north-westerly wind, which sets the stage for an exhilarating final 315 miles toward the finish line in Cherbourg. The projected arrival time for the leader is slated for around 08:00 BST the following morning.

Monohull Battle

When it comes to the monohull class, the race remains just as competitive. Two impressive 100-footers, SHK-Scallywag and BlackJack, are locked in a tactical matchup, matching each other tack for tack. Meanwhile, in the midst of increasing winds, Leopard has made notable progress, slipping into a strong third position.

In the IMOCA class, the newest vessel in the fleet, Élodie Bonafous’s Association Petit Princes, is leading narrowly against the well-seasoned competitor, Jérémie Beyou’s Charal.

The conditions for the 2025 Rolex Fastnet Race have been largely favorable, allowing teams to experience the delightful companionship of marine life, as seen with the Botin 52 Caro enjoying dolphin sightings in the Celtic Sea.

Retirements from the Race

Unfortunately, not every team managed to complete the race under favorable circumstances. The crew of Be Water Positive – Canada Ocean Racing, including sailors Pip Hare and Scott Shawyer, made the difficult decision to retire early this morning due to a hydraulic failure. The issue arose within their comprehensive hydraulic system, which is crucial for critical sail management and mast stabilization.

In an official statement, the team expressed their disappointment: “We’re retiring due to a technical issue with one of our main hydraulic control systems. We’re gutted—this race is iconic, and it’s disheartening not to finish. However, we have an upcoming series of races in The Ocean Race Europe, and it's essential we focus on repairs over the next two weeks.” Luckily, all crew members are safe, and the vessel has safely arrived in Cherbourg.

A Look Ahead

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Exploring New Locations

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The developments observed during the 2025 Rolex Fastnet Race encapsulate the exhilarating spirit of sailing. Competitive sailing is not just about speed but also about strategy, teamwork, and the unpredictable nature of the sea. As marine enthusiasts anticipate the outcomes, it’s evident that platforms like GetBoat, with their transparency and user-focused solutions, play a critical role in making these unforgettable maritime experiences accessible. Engage with the world of yachting, explore diverse destinations, and embrace the beauty of the ocean—where adventure awaits around every corner.