Jérémie Beyou, one of the top hopes for the Transat CIC solo race from Lorient to New York, is returning to Lorient after his J2 forestay was damaged.

The skipper of Charal made the decision to turn around after discussions with his technical team, to be able to make a repair as quickly as possible and carry out a complete check of the boat.

Beyou will leave again quickly with a reduced crew to deliver the IMOCA to New York. Beyou wants to make sure of starting the New York-Vendée race on May 29.