Richomme and Berrehar Return to Solitaire du Figaro

The world of solo offshore sailing is set for a major showdown this summer, as two of its most formidable talents have confirmed their return to the starting line of the Solitaire du Figaro Paprec. In a move that has electrified the sailing community, Richomme and Berrehar have announced they will compete in the 57th edition of the race this May.

This decision comes at a pivotal moment in their careers. Both sailors are currently in the final stages of constructing their state-of-the-art monocoques for the next Vendée Globe. Their participation in the Figaro serves as a crucial strategic step, offering a high-stakes proving ground to test their new vessels and sharpen their skills against a world-class fleet before their ultimate solo circumnavigation challenge.

The Solitaire du Figaro Paprec is widely regarded as the most prestigious and demanding solo sailing race in the world. For decades, it has been the ultimate training ground for skippers who go on to compete in the Vendée Globe. The race's unique format—four legs across the English Channel, the Atlantic, and the Celtic Sea—demands relentless precision, tactical genius, and physical endurance.

For Richomme and Berrehar, the decision to compete is not merely about adding another trophy to their cabinets. It is a calculated move to:

• Validate the performance of their new IMOCA monocoques in a competitive environment
• Refine their solo racing techniques on shorter, more intense legs
• Gather critical data that will inform their Vendée Globe strategies
• Measure their progress directly against their future ocean racing rivals

The 57th edition will thus be more than just a race; for these two sailors, it is an essential chapter in their preparation for the ultimate solo challenge.

The connection between the Solitaire du Figaro and the Vendée Globe is deeply rooted in the history of solo ocean racing. The Figaro is often called the 'Formula 1' of sailing, a place where sailors hone the reflexes and decision-making needed for the grueling, non-stop, 24,000-mile solo voyage around the world. Many past Vendée Globe champions have used the Figaro as their primary training platform.

Currently, both Richomme and Berrehar are in the intensive boat-building phase. This period is critical, as the design and construction of a modern IMOCA monocoque directly influence a skipper's chances in the Vendée Globe. By stepping away from the construction site to race in the Figaro, they are demonstrating a commitment to maintaining their competitive edge.

The race provides the perfect blend of technical testing and high-pressure competition that is impossible to replicate in training.

This approach allows them to push their new boats to their limits in a controlled, yet fiercely competitive, environment, ensuring they are race-ready for the 2028 Vendée Globe.

The upcoming 57th edition of the Solitaire du Figaro Paprec is already shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory. The return of sailors of the caliber of Richomme and Berrehar raises the bar for the entire fleet. Their presence guarantees a thrilling duel at the front of the pack, where every second will count across the four legs of the race.

The event, scheduled to start in May, will see the fleet tackle a series of challenging courses. The sailors will face the unpredictable weather of the North Atlantic, testing not only their new boats but also their mental fortitude. For the spectators and sailing enthusiasts, this edition promises:

• A direct confrontation between two sailors with Vendée Globe ambitions
• A fascinating comparison of their respective boat designs and performance
• The classic strategic battles that make the Figaro so captivating
• A preview of the rivalries that will define the next Vendée Globe

The starting gun for the 57th edition will mark the beginning of a summer-long narrative of speed, strategy, and endurance.

As the May start date approaches, all eyes will be on the harbor to see the new monocoques of Richomme and Berrehar in their final race-ready configurations. The Solitaire du Figaro is a race of millimeters and seconds, and the introduction of new boat designs always adds a layer of intrigue. Observers will be watching closely to see how each sailor's new vessel performs in different sea states and wind conditions.

The race will unfold over several weeks, with stopovers in iconic French ports that allow the public to get up close to the action. These moments provide a rare glimpse into the life of a solo offshore racer. For Richomme and Berrehar, every leg will be a data point, every maneuver a lesson learned. The pressure will be immense, but the rewards—both in terms of race results and preparation for the Vendée Globe—are invaluable.

The 57th edition is not just a race to the finish line; it is a critical milestone on the road to the next Vendée Globe, and a compelling story of two sailors chasing the ultimate dream.

The confirmation of Richomme and Berrehar for the 57th Solitaire du Figaro Paprec sets the stage for a captivating season of solo offshore racing. Their participation underscores the race's enduring importance as the premier proving ground for the world's best sailors. As they balance the demands of boat construction with the rigors of competition, their journey this summer will offer a compelling narrative of ambition, preparation, and performance.

With the Vendée Globe on the horizon, every race counts. The Solitaire du Figaro will be the first major test of their new campaigns, providing critical insights and setting the tone for the challenges ahead. For fans of the sport, it is an unmissable event that promises drama, skill, and a glimpse into the future of ocean racing.