i had just finished the race update when I saw this news.

“At 1742 UTC on Saturday 17th December, Stéphane Le Diraison informed the Vendée Globe Race Directors that his Imoca Compagnie du Lit / Ville de Boulogne-Billancourt had dismasted. The skipper was not injured and sounded in good health on the phone, when he called. He is currently in the process of sorting out the rig and will then carry out a complete check-up on his boat.

He was sailing in a 30-35 knot NW’ly wind, when the incident happened and is currently located 770 miles from the coast of Australia.
All of the project’s sponsors are relieved that Stéphane is fine and remain in awe of his performance during the race, during which he showed rigour and determination”.

So goes the Vendée Globe. A true test of Man and equipment.

just saying…