As the 2026 La Solitaire du Figaro Paprec approaches, a notable transformation is evident within the fleet. Increasingly, English-speaking sailors are joining the ranks of seasoned competitors, fundamentally changing the landscape of this respected offshore race.
These international entrants hail from diverse backgrounds and nations, united by the belief that the French offshore circuit, long recognized as the ultimate challenge for solo sailors, is now accessible. Leading the charge is Irish skipper Tom Dolan, who made history in 2024 as the first non-French winner since 1988. After a forced retirement in 2025, Dolan is returning to defend his title, eager to build on his previous success.
Joining Dolan are other ambitious talents like British sailor Joss Creswell, who, after a four-year journey culminating in his entry into this year’s rookie class, is not merely learning but is incorporating innovative technology to enhance performance. He aims to revolutionize the understanding of weather patterns and boat performance with machine learning tools.
For Creswell and other participants, their previous experiences sharpen their racing prowess. Veterans like Ellie Driver and Oliver Hill, who completed the race in earlier editions, approach the competition with enhanced understanding, confidence, and readiness to tackle its demanding challenges.
American skipper Erica Lush brings an exciting international dimension to the fleet. Backed by esteemed institutions and individual supporters, Lush aims to elevate interest in offshore racing in the United States while mentoring future talent through her campaign.
The format of the 2026 race has also shifted, moving to mid-season, which presents new demands for adaptability and preparation among the competitors. This evolution signifies an exciting time for La Solitaire du Figaro Paprec, showcasing the growing ambition and potential of the next generation of sailors.
About La Solitaire du Figaro Paprec:
La Solitaire du Figaro Paprec is a solo, multi-leg offshore race, created in 1970 under the name Course de l’Aurore. Sailed on one-design FIGARO Beneteau 3 yachts, it features a demanding route of 1,500 to 2,500 nautical miles, alternating between coastal and offshore legs.
A flagship event of the French Elite Offshore Racing Championship, it has revealed many of the most talented sailors. Strategic, physical, and captivating, La Solitaire challenges each skipper to face themselves, the sea, and the elements.
Since 2023, Paprec has been the title partner, affirming its support for sporting excellence and French offshore racing.
About OC Sport Pen Duick:
OC Sport Pen Duick is the French subsidiary of the OC Sport group, dedicated to offshore racing events. Originally created to manage the racing campaigns of Eric Tabarly and Dame Ellen MacArthur—two iconic figures of international sailing—the group continues to uphold the spirit and values of these pioneering founders: living and sharing unique experiences with the public, athletes, and partners.
With a long-standing commitment to offshore racing, the group has developed unique expertise in professional sailing, drawing on dual know-how in team management and the organization of the most prestigious races (La Route du Rhum – Destination Guadeloupe, ARKEA ULTIM CHALLENGE – Brest, The Transat CIC, La Solitaire du Figaro Paprec, the Transat Paprec, Le Tour de Belle-Île,…). OC Sport Pen Duick is part of the Groupe Télégramme.
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