Thomas Andre and Colombe Julia (FRA01) triumphed at the 2026 Offshore Double Handed World Championship, clinching victory in a nail-biting final race. The race concluded on Friday 2 October after a dramatic battle during the closing hours of the 190NM course, marked by light and fickle winds that saw the lead change hands among four boats. Ultimately, FRA01 navigated the final breezy patches skillfully, crossing the finish line at 12:20:26, just over two days post departure.
Annie Stevenson and Peter Winter (AUS01), who had led in the final morning, finished second, with Jonas Gerckens and Djemila Tassin (BEL01) securing the final podium spot.
Both Andre and Julia, seasoned Figaro sailors, previously raced together in the 470 class. This prior experience, along with their adaptability between helm and crew roles, was crucial during the challenging race that included everything from strong winds to periods of near-calm.
“It was so intense,” said Andre. “Every time there was always something happening. Upwind we were tacking every 10–15 minutes. We managed to take every lift from every headland. Then when it went light, Australia squeezed past us. They were fast.”
The course began with a 90NM beat in 20-knot winds and one-to-two-metre seas, starting at 11:30 on Wednesday 30 September. The first across the line was Christine Walta and Simeon Tienpont (NED01), with Federico Waksman and Irina Gracheva (URU01) making an excellent start, leading at the offset mark.
As the fleet departed the sheltered bay, sea conditions worsened, and by late afternoon FRA01 had taken the lead, remaining largely unchallenged overnight. On the final morning, AUS01 found stronger breezes closer to shore, enabling them to challenge for the lead.
In a thrilling final leg from Planier Lighthouse, FRA01 committed to a tactical right-hand side approach, finding more breeze under the cliffs to reclaim the lead just before crossing the finish line. AUS01 followed shortly in second and BEL01 narrowly edged out URU01 for third in a photo finish.
Celebrations erupted on the dock as the winning teams opened champagne, their crews relieved after a demanding race. Prizes were awarded by notable figures including Corinne Migraine, Vice-President of World Sailing, and Patrice Simon-Letertre, President of the Yacht Club de France.
With excitement already building, attention turns to the next championship, scheduled for mid-October 2027 in Cannes, France.
Visit the CNTL website for full results.
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