2023 Solo Ultim World Tour confirmed

The first ever single-handed race around the world in maxi multihulls will take place in 2023, organized by OC Sport Pen Duick in collaboration with the Class Ultim 32/23 as well as the skippers and owners of the world’s most highly advanced and exciting ocean-going race boats.

The concept of a solo, round the world tour for these 32-metre giants was first envisioned more than 15 years ago. However, the idea that these marvels of ocean sailing and innovation could chase the winds around the globe has taken time to come to fruition – and for good reason.

The balance between technical development, reliability, and an ambitious program is extremely complex. And so, the first edition, to be held at the end of 2023, is the fruit of many years of work to establish such a revolutionary event.

“We are very happy to see this project come to life,” noted Patricia Brochard, President of the Ultim 32/23 Class. “Together, we will be able to prepare for this round the world trip and give this magnificent race, which is both very human and highly technological, the breath it deserves.”

While the choice of the start and finish host city has not yet been decided, discussions are underway with the City of Brest, which has shown keen interest in hosting this event since the creation of the project. The level of competition and the calibre of the skipper’s is set to be exceptional, with formal commitments already confirmed by:

• Actual – skipper, Yves Le Blevec
• Banque Populaire – skipper, Armel Le Cléac’h
• Brest Ultim Sailing – skipper TBC
• Maxi Edmond de Rothschild – skipper, Charles Caudrelier
• Sodebo – skipper, Thomas Coville

“This solo round-the-world race in the Ultim is a dream I didn’t even dare to hope for in my career,” said Charles Caudrelier, Skipper Maxi Edmond de Rothschild. “I have always been very drawn to the Vendée Globe, but here, at the helm of the fastest boats on the planet and in flying mode, it is quite simply the ultimate challenge.

“Leading such a boat alone on such a demanding global course is an extraordinary adventure that I am really proud to share with the Gitana Team and on the Maxi Edmond de Rothschild. I have been thinking about this world tour for two years, it is this goal that motivates me and keeps me moving forward every day.”

Source: OC SPORT