The announced arrival of Ocean Fifty multihulls in La Solitaire du Figaro from 2028 is dividing the offshore racing world and raising questions about the future of the event.
The announcement of a change of platform for La Solitaire du Figaro has triggered a lively reaction across the offshore racing community. The planned replacement of the Figaro Bénéteau III monohulls with the Ocean Fifty multihull class, scheduled from 2028, is far from unanimous. Many see it as a break with the spirit of a race long conceived as the training ground and selection process for young sailors.
This decision raises a simple question: why have the backers of the 50-foot multihulls sought to take over this race, at the risk of drawing criticism? The answer lies first in the pursuit of visibility. La Solitaire du Figaro enjoys a loyal audience and a strong image among the French public. For a technologically advanced and spectacular class, aligning itself with this flagship event is an opportunity to reach a wider audience and strengthen its credibility with sponsors.
Opponents, however, point to the risk of distorting the event. Ocean Fifties are demanding, fast and costly boats to campaign. Moving from an open solo race attracting many different profiles to a more technical format could reduce the number of skippers able to line up and alter the very philosophy of the competition. Some also fear a speed gap between the two platforms, which would complicate the sporting reading of the rankings.
The real challenge will therefore be what the class can concretely bring to the event. Greater media coverage, technical innovation shared with the general public and continuity in the development of skippers would be compelling assets. Conversely, a transformation perceived as a mere marketing stunt could durably alienate enthusiasts.
By 2028, the proof remains to be delivered. La Solitaire du Figaro must show that it can evolve without losing its soul, and the Ocean Fifties will have to convince that they are more than a technological showcase. The debate, for its part, is already open.
This decision raises a simple question: why have the backers of the 50-foot multihulls sought to take over this race, at the risk of drawing criticism? The answer lies first in the pursuit of visibility. La Solitaire du Figaro enjoys a loyal audience and a strong image among the French public. For a technologically advanced and spectacular class, aligning itself with this flagship event is an opportunity to reach a wider audience and strengthen its credibility with sponsors.
Opponents, however, point to the risk of distorting the event. Ocean Fifties are demanding, fast and costly boats to campaign. Moving from an open solo race attracting many different profiles to a more technical format could reduce the number of skippers able to line up and alter the very philosophy of the competition. Some also fear a speed gap between the two platforms, which would complicate the sporting reading of the rankings.
The real challenge will therefore be what the class can concretely bring to the event. Greater media coverage, technical innovation shared with the general public and continuity in the development of skippers would be compelling assets. Conversely, a transformation perceived as a mere marketing stunt could durably alienate enthusiasts.
By 2028, the proof remains to be delivered. La Solitaire du Figaro must show that it can evolve without losing its soul, and the Ocean Fifties will have to convince that they are more than a technological showcase. The debate, for its part, is already open.
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Source: Ouest-France