The ongoing duel between Charlie Dalin (Macif Santé Prévoyance) and Yoann Richomme (Paprec Arkéa) continues to intensify at the forefront of the race. Comfortable in the transition zones at the helm of his more versatile Verdier design, Dalin has widened the gap by 57 miles as of the 11am report. Both sailors are expected to pick up speed during the day with the help of a currently gentle trade wind blowing from the east. Meanwhile, there has been a major breakdown on Thomas Ruyant's Vulnerable after facing a violent storm off the coast of Argentina...

Source of news Voile & Moteur

Yesterday, Charlie Dalin took advantage of the end of the anticyclonic ridge he had been battling for days with Yoann Richomme to climb up the mast to check the equipment wear.

Thomas Ruyant, still in 4th place this morning, experienced a very violent weather phenomenon yesterday with winds reaching up to 60 knots for two hours, followed by a fierce thunderstorm. His J2, a crucial foresail for the Atlantic ascent, tore into shreds, forcing him to make a mast climb.

"I've never experienced anything like this! For two hours, between 45 and 60 knots, it was hell! I don't understand, I saw nothing on the charts, it's definitely active around here, but it lasted, lasted! I'm gutted... well, I'll get back on track! I have a piece of J2 flapping up there, anyway I can't climb the mast now, the sea is raging!" (Thomas Ruyant)

Romain Attanasio (Fortinet Best Western) rounded the Cape Horn this morning while Damien Seguin (Groupe Apicil) is currently doing the same.

Lastly, in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, the fleet continues to sail cautiously, keeping an eye out for potential icebergs that may have drifted away from the ice zone, although they are expected to move away from the risk zone in the coming hours. According to the Vendée Globe press release.