Charlie Dalin is poised for victory at the 2025 Vendée Globe, completing his race on the MACIF Santé Prévoyance and setting his sails to the finish line at Les Sables d'Olonne early on January 15, 2025. After leading the race since December 30, Dalin has become the favorite to cross the finish line first, with expectations placing him there between 04:30 and 08:30 UTC. Remarkably, he aims to shatter the previous course record of 74 days, 3 hours, and 36 minutes held by Armel Le Cléac'h since the 2016 race. Given the current predictions, both Dalin and his closest rival Yoann Richomme (PAPREC ARKÉA), just over 90 miles behind, could complete the course within approximately 65 days.
The anticipation surrounding Dalin's victory is palpable. Having experienced heart-wrenching disappointment during the last edition of the Vendée Globe, where he crossed first but lost to Yannick Bestaven on adjusted time, this win would be particularly sweet. Dalin's consistent performance throughout the race showcases his remarkable skills and endurance as he sails through familiar waters off the coast of Brittany.
"There will be some upwind to finish in some very cold temperatures, maybe the coldest night of the entire race, and it is going to be a flat sea," Dalin detailed, foreshadowing his final hours of the race. His deep familiarity with these waters — where he previously trained and where his boat was built — gives him both comfort and tactical advantage as he closes in on the famous French coastline.
Dalin’s sailing feat is complemented by Richomme’s impressive performance as well. For Richomme, who is competing in his first Vendée Globe, to be within sight of the leader is remarkable. Earlier, he expressed camaraderie and respect for Dalin’s achievements, stating, “I would be happy for him if he won it. I think he deserves it.” Richomme's capable sailing has propelled him to the front ranks, and with both skippers currently sailing the same familiar stretch of coastline, the race atmosphere is thick with competitive spirit.
Further down the leaderboard, Sébastien Simon (GROUPE DUBREUIL) is expected to finish between January 16 and 17, adding to the excitement as the remaining competitors make their way to the finish line. This year's Vendée Globe has been as unpredictable as it has been thrilling, with the eager fanbases closely tracking not just the leading competitors but also the next waves of sailors making their way toward the conclusion of this iconic race.
Weather conditions have remained varied, with fading easterly winds along the French coast posing potential challenges for racers, particularly as they maneuver through complex tides and busy fishing areas. Historically, these waters have presented risks, previously leading to accidents just before the finish line. To avoid mishaps similar to those experienced by Boris Herrmann and Alex Thomson, both Dalin and Richomme are approaching with caution.
Fans of the Vendée Globe can stay updated through the official race tracker, which has become the go-to source for race updates among enthusiasts. The tracker offers near real-time positioning and course information, though it does carry some inherent delays. Despite these, the excitement for the finish builds daily as skippers navigate their paths toward glory.
At the forefront, Dalin's imminent success emphasizes not just his sailing prowess, but also his resilience and strategic acumen developed through years of racing. His approach for the final stretch, closely hugging the coast before making final adjustments for the finish, demonstrates his honed skills refined through both rigorous training and intense competition.
Tomorrow, the spotlight will undoubtedly be on Dalin as he crosses the threshold of Les Sables d’Olonne, the harbor echoing with cheers from spectators and fellow racers alike. The Vendée Globe continues to bolster its reputation as one of sailing’s toughest challenges, and as 2025 nears its completion, the legacy of this year's race will soon be etched indelibly within the annals of maritime sports.