Inside the Vendée Globe 2024 | 40 Skippers Embark on the Ultimate Solo Sailing Challenge

The Vendée Globe got underway with 40 skippers setting sail from Les Sables d’Olonne, facing a light start as they embarked on the legendary non-stop journey around the world. The relatively calm conditions provided a steady opening, but as Sébastien Col, Team Manager of Holcim-PRB, notes, this race is much more than a solo mission—it’s a human adventure involving an entire team and support network, keeping skippers focused on their goals even in the most isolating moments. In preparation, North Sails has played a critical role, working closely with select teams to develop custom sail designs adapted not only to each boat but to each skipper’s unique sailing style. As Col emphasizes, “Reliability for us as a team is really at the top of the list.” Working with North Sails, the team has confidence in both the durability and the competitive edge of their sails. After years of preparation, Team Holcim-PRB and the rest of the fleet are ready for the challenges ahead. Fans and teams alike will be following the race closely, ready to see how each skipper manages these first stages of an unforgettable race. Learn about North Sails and the Vendee Globe: https://www.northsails.com/pages/vendee-globe Follow the race tracker: https://www.vendeeglobe.org/en/tracker #VendeeGlobe #Sailing #SoloSailing #OceanRacing #TeamHolcimPRB #NorthSails #OffshoreRacing