GLOBE40 – TODAY’S HIGHLIGHTS – December 5, 2025
Having set off on their third leg on November 22nd from Saint Paul Bay on Reunion Island, the eight competitors in the second edition of the GLOBE40 were confronted with the calms of the Mascarene High, previously encountered on their journey from South Africa. This period lasted about a week, with skippers readjusting to life at sea, but they found it faster than the outward journey. The quest to head south began in search of the westerly depressions, the “highway of depressions” in sailing terms. Skippers eventually found them, changing the race dynamics as they swiftly navigated southward, reaching close to 45° South, with boundaries set at 46° and 48° South under the Great Australian Bight.
Regrettably, the German crew of NEXT GENERATION BOATING AROUND THE WORLD had to withdraw from this leg due to a mechanical failure in the rigging, which risked the mast falling. Thanks to the quick actions of Lennart Burke and Melvin Fink, further disaster was averted. After two days of reflection, they decided to return to Reunion Island for repairs, intending to rejoin the race at a later stage. This incident marks the first serious setback in 10,000 miles of racing for the entire fleet, impacting a talented crew that previously showcased strong potential with a second-place finish in the Cape Verde/Reunion leg.
The past week for the remaining crews was defined by navigating the Southern Ocean—a challenging yet anticipated leg. Sailors have been enjoying long, exhilarating runs, with speeds reaching up to 30.8 knots for the Belgian team. They encounter cold and gray skies in these unwelcoming yet unforgettable waters, with great albatrosses accompanying them. For many skippers, a seasoned presence in European circuits and transatlantic races, this represents the zenith of their offshore racing careers. However, such prowess comes with challenges: fears of the boat stalling in troughs, cold conditions, and the fatigue of both crew and equipment serve as constant reminders of the sport’s mechanical nature. As noted by Amélie Grassi aboard CREDIT MUTUEL, they are aware of their privilege racing around the world and appreciate their experiences on the Southern Ocean’s waves.
In terms of competition, the pace remains fierce, with the leaders having covered 3,500 miles at an average speed of nearly 12 knots. This accounts for 61% of the theoretical distance thus far, with almost 2,000 miles still to go to Sydney. Lead changes have occurred frequently, with 29 shifts in the past two weeks. The competition has typically alternated between BELGIUM OCEAN RACING and CREDIT MUTUEL. Despite facing some mechanical breakdowns that afflict performance, the Belgian team is presently about fifty miles behind CREDIT MUTUEL as they approach Cape Leeuwin, the second major cape of the course.
The classic Class40s, known as “pointus,” are not far behind, with FREE DOM maintaining a small lead of 50 miles over BARCO BRASIL. WILSON trails close behind, approximately thirty miles from the Brazilian competitor, while JANGADA RACING and WHISKEY JACK are also within fifty miles of each other, with JANGADA holding a slight edge. Expect the leaders in Sydney around December 11th/12th and December 15th/16th for the pointed boats, yet the challenging passages through the Great Australian Bight and Strait remain ahead.
Race map: To follow the race: https://www.globe40.com/cartographie/
Episode 3, “La Réunion,” of the GLOBE40 Around the World web series, is available to watch at https://www.globe40.com/portfolio/la-reunion-videos-2025/
Website: www.globe40.com
Facebook page: Globe40
Instagram page: Globe40_
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