Will the next edition of the Vendée Globe, the solo, non-stop sailing trip around the world, leave this year? The organizers believe it and repeat it. They confirmed in a press release on Tuesday May 12 that the start of the race was maintained on November 8, despite the health crisis. It must take place in the port of Les Sables d’Olonne, in Vendée. “ Departure is being prepared in an uncertain health and economic contextexplains the statement. The Vendée Departmental Council and SAEM Vendée are doing everything possible to ensure the smooth running of this 9th edition in conjunction with its partners, the skippers of the IMOCA Class, their sponsors and the public authorities. Maintaining the race with a start on November 8 is our goal. From a sporting point of view, nothing stands in the way of this, subject to the opinion of the State. » The question of the presence of the public in the starting area has not yet been definitively resolved, but it has already been decided by the organizers that the registration deadline is extended to September 1st. A solo preparation test was initially planned for June. It should finally be held from July 4. The race could last 10 days, with a departure from Les Sables d'Olonne on July 4, heading to Iceland then the Azores.
