As the starting cannon of 1 November 2026 draws closer in Saint-Malo, Route du Rhum enthusiasts are studying the balance of power in each class, hoping to guess the name of the first skipper to cross the finish line in Guadeloupe.
The countdown has begun. In a few days, the quays of Saint-Malo will welcome the 115 skippers entered in this 2026 edition of the Route du Rhum one last time, before the grand departure is given on Sunday 1 November at 1:02 pm off the Corsair City. Once again, the Atlantic Ocean will serve as the stage for one of the most iconic solo races in the world.
Among the expected favourites, Armel Le Cléac'h continues to establish himself as a credible candidate for final victory. The Breton skipper, already victorious in the race in 2014, knows perfectly the demands of this solo transatlantic race. Against him, Sam Goodchild also represents a serious threat, drawing on the experience he has accumulated in recent years on the international ocean racing circuits.
In the category of younger talents, Basile Bourgnon naturally attracts the attention of observers. His boldness and determination could well spring a surprise on a course that rarely forgives mistakes. The other classes also abound with contenders capable of overturning the established predictions.
For enthusiasts who wish to try their luck, several platforms now make it possible to make your own predictions, class by class. An interactive way to become more involved in this human and sporting adventure, which transcends mere sporting results to touch on epic achievement and legend.
Among the expected favourites, Armel Le Cléac'h continues to establish himself as a credible candidate for final victory. The Breton skipper, already victorious in the race in 2014, knows perfectly the demands of this solo transatlantic race. Against him, Sam Goodchild also represents a serious threat, drawing on the experience he has accumulated in recent years on the international ocean racing circuits.
In the category of younger talents, Basile Bourgnon naturally attracts the attention of observers. His boldness and determination could well spring a surprise on a course that rarely forgives mistakes. The other classes also abound with contenders capable of overturning the established predictions.
For enthusiasts who wish to try their luck, several platforms now make it possible to make your own predictions, class by class. An interactive way to become more involved in this human and sporting adventure, which transcends mere sporting results to touch on epic achievement and legend.
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Source: Ouest-France