THE ROUTE DU RHUM 2026

The 13th edition of the Route du Rhum will welcome an impressive fleet of 115 boats to sail solo across the Atlantic. North Sails has the privilege of working with a huge number of the skippers and their teams as they prepare and compete in this mythical offshore classic.

Created in 1978, the now legendary Route du Rhum is held every four years and is celebrated for the diversity of its boat classes and its unique mix of professionals, leading figures in sailing, and amateur sailors.

This edition welcomes a fleet of six classes, from the cutting-edge foiling Ultims to the stunning vintage monohulls. 11 nationalities are represented, dominated by French sailors, with 11 women lining up single-handed to compete against 104 men. The youngest skipper, Titouan Pilliard, comes in at just 20 years, with the eldest, Charlie Capelle, racing solo at the venerable age of 71. 
  
The Route du Rhum is also one of France’s most popular sporting events, drawing millions to the pontoons of St Malo ahead of the race start, which is broadcast live on national television, and even more following the action online.

With so many racing teams choosing to work with North Sails to develop their sail plans, the North Sails loft in Lorient, France, plays a critical role as the world’s best solo sailors prepare for the Route du Rhum. 

We speak with the sail experts at the heart of the offshore sailing hub in Brittany who have spent the last few years and months working closely with the teams to make sure they have can achieve their ambitions in the race.