The press conference outlining the DRHEAM-CUP/GRAND PRIX DE FRANCE AU LARGE 2026, scheduled for 9 – 18 July, took place on Thursday 18 June in Cherbourg-en-Cotentin. This edition marks the tenth anniversary of the race, and it is set to be exceptional, with over 120 crews already registered. The race will commence from Cherbourg-en-Cotentin on Sunday 12 July, featuring two distinct courses leading to Lorient, a record number of entries since the race’s inception in 2016.
Francis Le Goff, the new race director, emphasized the popularity of the event, stating, “Over 120 boats have already entered across crewed, double-handed, and solo categories. This diverse entry reflects the race’s appeal among both professionals and amateurs, with various classes and crew configurations. We commend Jacques Civilise and his team for making the race an unmissable event over the past decade.”
The line-up is particularly impressive, notably including the entire Ocean Fifty fleet, which comprises eleven trimarans. This year, the DRHEAM CUP / GRAND PRIX DE FRANCE AU LARGE is part of the Ocean Fifty series, marking its significance to the class and its owners.
Thibaut Vauchel-Camus, skipper of Solidaires en Peloton and a two-time race winner, remarked on the event’s appeal, highlighting the exceptional 1000 nautical-mile course and the strong community atmosphere. The welcoming environment in Cherbourg, coupled with numerous activities at the Plage Verte, enhances the experience for competitors and spectators alike.
This year’s race serves as a qualifier for the Route du Rhum-Destination Guadeloupe, featuring the 11 Ocean Fifties racing single-handed on the DC 1000 course, along with around 40 Class40s expected to start from Cherbourg-en-Cotentin.
Cédric de Kervenoaël, president of Class40, noted that the DRHEAM-CUP is crucial in their preparation for the Route du Rhum, citing its excellent organisation and public engagement as key factors in their loyalty to the event.
Top competitors from the Ocean Fifty class will participate, including notable skippers such as Guillaume Pirouelle and Corentin Douguet, alongside a strong representation from Class40. The entry list also features veteran boats from the Rhum Mono Vintage and Multi Vintage categories, showcasing historic offshore racing vessels.
The IMOCA fleet will also be present, with skippers like Pierre Louis Attwell and Arnaud Boissière set to compete.
The event will see a significant number of IRC boats, including approximately 40 entries, many of which are crewed by experienced amateurs racing alongside determined competitors. Familiar teams such as Fastwave 7 and the classic Faiaohae will return, and notable entries include Sidney Gavignet on Cigare Rouge and Alan Roura on the Volvo 70 Ocean Breeze-Majorica.
Race director Francis Le Goff expressed enthusiasm for the diverse fleet, which will come together to celebrate the spirit of sailing.
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