At the halfway point of the Route du Rhum 2026, skipper Tom Laperche dominates the Ultim class and is nearing Pointe-à-Pitre with prospects of breaking the record, while the other main categories seem already decided.
With just days until the finish in Pointe-à-Pitre, Tom Laperche is heading towards an almost certain victory in the Ultim category. The Breton skipper has built a considerable lead over his pursuers and appears to be heading straight for a new record for the transatlantic crossing. His performance is impressing observers and confirms his status as the favorite for this 2026 edition.
In the other main classes, the scenario is largely the same. The Imoca and Ocean Fifty classes are offering few surprises, with the leaders having seized a decisive advantage from the very first days of the race. The gaps have widened rapidly, leaving little room for suspense in these categories that have historically been synonymous with fierce competition.
This situation raises a legitimate question: is the Route du Rhum already over before the first competitors even arrive in Guadeloupe? While records seem destined to fall, the absence of close racing in the main standings could disappoint offshore racing enthusiasts.
However, in sailing, nothing is ever certain. Weather conditions can change rapidly and offer unexpected opportunities for recovery. The competitors still racing know this well: caution remains the order of the day until the finish line, and surprises are an integral part of this legendary competition's DNA.
It remains to be seen whether the latecomers will be able to pull off the much-anticipated feat, or whether this Route du Rhum 2026 will go down in the records as a one-sided edition.
In the other main classes, the scenario is largely the same. The Imoca and Ocean Fifty classes are offering few surprises, with the leaders having seized a decisive advantage from the very first days of the race. The gaps have widened rapidly, leaving little room for suspense in these categories that have historically been synonymous with fierce competition.
This situation raises a legitimate question: is the Route du Rhum already over before the first competitors even arrive in Guadeloupe? While records seem destined to fall, the absence of close racing in the main standings could disappoint offshore racing enthusiasts.
However, in sailing, nothing is ever certain. Weather conditions can change rapidly and offer unexpected opportunities for recovery. The competitors still racing know this well: caution remains the order of the day until the finish line, and surprises are an integral part of this legendary competition's DNA.
It remains to be seen whether the latecomers will be able to pull off the much-anticipated feat, or whether this Route du Rhum 2026 will go down in the records as a one-sided edition.
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Source: Ouest-France