Tom Dolan Thrives in the Breeze

With the arrival of windier conditions, the experienced sailors are leading the way. Still in the lead, Tom Dolan on Kingspan is sailing off the Île d'Yeu at an average speed of 7.5 knots. This morning he is ahead of Loïs Berrehar (Banque Populaire) and especially Martin Le Pape (Paprec), who is making a very strong comeback.

The sailors have entered this new phase of the race with the return of more challenging conditions. Battered by storms and squalls, the fleet is making rapid progress upwind towards the northwest. The leading boats are currently sailing south of Noirmoutier and are heading for Belle-Île.

Caution is advised, while progressing as best as possible. Late last night, Erica Lush (Hope) informed Race Control of her retirement due to a tear in her mainsail. Unable to make a repair, the American unfortunately had to withdraw from the race.

But this return from windy sailing is just the beginning of the fun. As the hours pass, everyone will face strengthening winds and rougher seas. Life on board will become increasingly difficult. Comfort will have to be sacrificed, and they will have to contend with dampness, cold, and relentless waves. But victory is only sweet in adversity, and on this final leg, in addition to the conditions, the provisional overall standings are also full of intensity and suspense.

The next mandatory checkpoint west of Sein will serve as the first deciding factor. The final Intermediate Sprint will then be awarded there.

Reporting live from the sea, Yann Château, Race Director of La Solitaire du FigaroPaprec, shares his perspective on an invigorating night:

"Good morning everyone, a night that sets the tone for this second day of the Solitaire du Figaro Paprec 2026. Indeed, after rounding the BXA mark yesterday in rather light conditions, the fleet sailed a long upwind leg on port tack towards the tip of Brittany, awaiting the passage of a front during the night. The wind and sea state steadily increased. So, quite challenging conditions from 10-11 pm yesterday evening, and a fairly strong front passed through at 5 am with heavy rain, 35 knots, and a 30° starboard wind shift that caused some minor damage to the fleet and also stretched them out. The sailors should arrive tonight west of Sein for a Channel crossing to the English coast and a fairly quick downriver to Le Havre, with an ETA expected between Wednesday night and Thursday morning."

As soon as the sailors have the opportunity to lower and unfurl the sails, the speedometers will start climbing rapidly and the surfs will become endless. They will then have to find the right balance to conserve their energy while maintaining a sustained pace. Right now, the watchwords are patience and tenacity.

Have a good day everyone!