The 2026 Route du Rhum-Destination Guadeloupe is set to deliver one of its most competitive editions yet, with 118 solo sailors confirmed. The race will start from Saint-Malo on 1 November, with skippers racing solo across the Atlantic to Pointe-à-Pitre in Guadeloupe.
A total of six classes will compete, including ULTIM, Ocean Fifty, IMOCA, Class40, Vintage Multi and Vintage Mono.
The ULTIM class features a strong line-up led by defending champion Charles Caudrelier. He faces competition from Armel Le Cléac’h, Thomas Coville and Tom Laperche. “A new dynamic with this boat,” said Caudrelier. “The fleet is very competitive, and performance continues to improve.”
Flying start — The fleet powers away at the Route du Rhum start. Photo: Ewan Lebourdais
In IMOCA, Jérémie Beyou and Britain’s Sam Goodchild are among the favourites. They are challenged by defending champion Thomas Ruyant and a deep field of contenders. Elodie Bonafous said the race remains a major test. “Crossing the Atlantic is no small feat… the level is very high,” she said.
Ocean Fifty is expected to deliver another close contest. Four years ago, victory was decided by just 18 minutes. Thibault Vauchel-Camus said: “We have a fabulous fleet… very good skippers and diverse profiles.”
Class40 will be the largest fleet with 49 entries. The absence of defending champion Yoann Richomme leaves the title race wide open. Vincent Riou described the race as a benchmark. “For Class40 skippers, the Route du Rhum is our Olympic Games,” he said.
The Vintage classes continue to blend history with competition. ORMA trimarans and classic monohulls will feature alongside experienced and amateur sailors. Jean Le Cam returns in Vintage Mono after restoring a Swan 59. “We are all determined to experience the adventure,” he said.
Race Director Francis Le Goff said the line-up reflects the event’s standing. “We are fortunate to have a brilliant fleet in every class,” he said. Organisers expect large crowds at both the start and finish, underlining the race’s status as one of France’s biggest sporting events.
