Press Release No. 6 – CIC MED CHANNEL RACE 2026 – May 6, 2026
Twists and Turns Along the Sardinian Coast
The competitors in the 2nd edition of the CIC MED CHANNEL RACE are entering their 4th day of racing, with a fierce competition for the top spots, as 7 boats remain within 12 nautical miles. Class40 No. 142 PHARE 40 – HA PLUS PME, skippered by Mathieu Clvaeau and François Verdier, crossed the finish line first at 7:02 a.m. on Tuesday morning at the Bonifacio Straits, followed closely by No. 134 STELLA NOVA and No. 149 LES AILES DE CHARLOTTE. The standings shifted 24 hours later, with STELLA NOVA leading the rankings at 8:00 AM, followed by boat number 168 RDT LOGISTIC – OCEAN CONNECT, skippered by Yves Courbon and Matthieu Henry, in second place, and No. 142 PHARE 40 – HA PLUS PME in third. Since the last report, the competitors have navigated through two tactical sequences: one along the Sardinian coast and another further offshore. Each boat has been defending its position while attempting various strategies to gain an advantage. They are currently sailing close-hauled into approximately 15 knots of southerly wind, which has limited their direct route. Additionally, they must navigate around a firing zone south of Sardinia, which complicates their course. Relief is anticipated soon, as they are 25 miles away from rounding the southeast corner of the firing zone to head directly towards the ranking gate at the southern tip of Sardinia, expected to be reached later today.
Ashore or Offshore?
After passing the Strait of Bonifacio, the leaders opted for a route away from the coast, while Yves Courbon and Matthieu Henry made a bold choice to stay close to shore, quickly gaining a 5-mile lead. The all-female crew of boat number 89, MER CONNEXION, with Ambre Hasson and Marine Feurstein, followed closely behind No. 168 and remarkably secured second place, despite their Class40 being the oldest in the fleet. However, the previous leaders, PHARE HA PLUS PME and STELLA NOVA, regained their lead during the night by venturing far offshore for a more favourable option. At dawn, there remained 25 nautical miles to cover, maintaining the same course for the past three days. The crews have been sailing at an angle since the race commenced on Sunday, which, while not the worst conditions, has still been somewhat uncomfortable. The second half of the race is expected to feature downwind sailing, which will be a welcome change for the competitors.
GLACES ROMANE Abandons Race
Class40 #179 GLACES ROMANE had to retire last night due to significant engine problems and a loss of power, making a stopover in Bonifacio before likely returning to Marseille. Their safe passage is wished as they exit the race. Notably, the all-female crew of MER CONNEXION has performed excellently, not only making the right choice when exiting the Strait of Bonifacio but also excelling in the tactical battles, securing a strong 5th place in the 08:00 rankings.
For crew presentations, visit: https://www.med-race.com/les-equipages/
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