JULES VERNE TROPHY: THE BATTLE HAS BEGUN! ?

THE DOUBLE CHALLENGE OF THE JULES VERNE TROPHY: SVR-LAZARTIGUE AND SODEBO ULTIM 3 RACE FOR THE RECORD The Jules Verne Trophy enters a thrilling chapter as two titans of ocean racing, SVR-Lazartigue and Sodebo Ultim 3, embark on a quest to break the legendary record. Skippered by François Gabart and Thomas Coville, the trimarans departed on November 30, 2024, aiming to surpass the benchmark of 40 days, 23 hours, 30 minutes, and 30 seconds set by Francis Joyon and IDEC Sport in 2017. This record represents the pinnacle of human and technological capability in offshore sailing, demanding unmatched speed and flawless strategy to navigate the globe's unpredictable oceans. The Jules Verne Trophy is not merely a race against time but a test of endurance, skill, and ingenuity. Competitors must circumnavigate the globe nonstop and unassisted, rounding the iconic capes of Good Hope, Leeuwin, and Horn. This year's dual challenge heightens excitement within the sailing community, as both teams push the boundaries of possibility in their pursuit of maritime glory. François Gabart, already a solo round-the-world record holder, views this as the greatest challenge of his career. Aboard SVR-Lazartigue, a trimaran optimized for speed, Gabart and his crew strategically timed their departure to capitalize on favorable weather. "Our goal is to complete this journey without significant damage. The boat is ready, the team is motivated, and now it's time to face the ocean," he stated, emphasizing the balance required between speed and technical management. Thomas Coville, a seasoned veteran with nine circumnavigations, launched Sodebo Ultim 3 with similar ambitions. Months of preparation have transformed the trimaran into a cutting-edge vessel, equipped with foils enabling speeds over 40 knots. Coville declared, "We have an incredible boat and an extraordinary team. Breaking the 40-day barrier will demand everything from us." His extensive experience will be critical as his team navigates the Southern Ocean, a notorious proving ground for both sailors and technology. As both teams head south, the race becomes a tale of human endurance and innovation. Gabart's strategy emphasizes a strong start for an early lead, while Coville's team adopts a measured approach, blending speed with meticulous handling. Both crews face the critical task of managing weather windows and adapting to the extreme, ever-changing conditions of the open sea. The technical differences between the two trimarans add intrigue to this extraordinary challenge. SVR-Lazartigue excels in stability and sustained speed, while Sodebo Ultim 3 pushes the boundaries of innovation, designed for peak performance. Both boats showcase years of research and expertise, embodying the forefront of modern sailing technology. The simultaneous presence of SVR-Lazartigue and Sodebo Ultim 3 in the Jules Verne Trophy makes this edition historic. It's not just a race between boats but a clash of visions and strategies in ocean racing. As the sailing world watches, the question looms: who will set the new benchmark? Regardless of the outcome, this dual challenge celebrates the courage, determination, and spirit of adventure that define offshore sailing.