Charles Caudrelier Prepares to Defend Title

Charles Caudrelier is preparing to defend his title in the Route du Rhum – Destination Guadeloupe after a remarkable victory in 2022 aboard the Maxi Edmond de Rothschild, Gitana 17. He holds the race record of 6 days, 19 hours, 47 minutes, and 25 seconds. At 52, Caudrelier returns as a formidable competitor with a new, innovative maxi-multihull launched in February 2026, just months before the race.

This will be the first race for the new Maxi Edmond de Rothschild, Gitana 18, presenting a significant challenge for Caudrelier and his team. Four years ago, as a newcomer, he entered the race as the favourite. Now, with more experience and confidence, he acknowledges that while he knows the boat’s capabilities may not yet be fully realised, he is eager to discover its potential.

Caudrelier’s sailing career is marked by steady progression and numerous accolades, including two Volvo Ocean Race victories and a recent win in the 2024 Arkéa Ultim Challenge – Brest. His journey into offshore racing began in the Figaro circuit, and he has amassed victories in key events including the Rolex Fastnet Race and Transat Jacques Vabre.

He emphasises that his strength is not just in his solo sailing ability but also in the support of the Gitana Team, with whom he has developed a strong partnership over the years. Caudrelier is committed to translating their hard work into results on the race course, understanding the responsibility that comes with leading such an innovative vessel.

As he prepares for the upcoming race, he reflects on his previous experiences and the new challenges that lie ahead with Gitana 18. Caudrelier remains dedicated to competing fiercely, regardless of whether he is viewed as the favourite.

Charles Caudrelie – Career highlights

Born: 26 February 1974

Major achievements
1999: Solitaire du Figaro – Top rookie
2004: Solitaire du Figaro – Winner
2009 and 2013: Transat Jacques Vabre – Winner
2011–2012 and 2017–2018: Volvo Ocean Race – Winner (crewed round-the-world race with stopovers)
2018 and 2024: French Sailor of the Year

Aboard the Maxi Edmond de Rothschild
2019 and 2021: Rolex Fastnet Race – Winner
2019: Brest Atlantiques – Winner
2020: Drheam Cup – Winner
2021: Transat Jacques Vabre – Winner
2022: Finistère Atlantique – Challenge Action Enfance – Winner
2022: 24H Ultim – Winner
2022: Route du Rhum–Destination Guadeloupe – Winner and new race record: 6 days, 19 hours, 47 minutes and 25 seconds
2024: Arkéa Ultim Challenge – Brest – Winner in 50 days, 19 hours, 7 minutes and 42 seconds

Technical Specifications — Maxi Edmond de Rothschild

Length: 32 metres
Beam: 23 metres
Nets: 170 m²
Area of aerodynamic covers: 73 m²
Cockpit floor surface area for manouvering: 9 m²
Living area (floor surface area): 4.8 m²
Displacement: 19.5 tonnes
Number of appendages: 6
Height of float rudders: 4 metres
Foils span area: 10.4 metres
Foil bulb length: 2.4 metres
Sail area upwind: 450 m²
Sail area downwind: 630 m²
Aerial draft: 38.4 m
Electrical cables: 8 km
Number of sensors: 500
Total decorated surface (hulls and sails): 2,000 m²

The new Maxi Edmond de Rothschild is the twenty‑eighth boat in this legendary maritime saga, which will be celebrating its 150th anniversary in a few weeks.