Launched in a Jules-Verne Trophy record attempt since November 25, the maxi-trimaran Sodebo Ultim 3 will not complete its round-the-world trip.
Thomas Coville and his seven crew, who suffered damage to one of the boat's rudders in the Indian Ocean, decided to put an end to their attempt after just over 16 days of racing.
The crew is now on their way to Reunion Island - 2300 miles away from where they are currently - in order to make the boat more reliable and return safely to Lorient.
Ahead of the reference time of Francis Joyon and Idec Sport at the Cape of Good Hope, Sodebo had been greatly slowed down by this damage (9 knots) and was 150 miles behind on Friday morning.
"READ ALSO -
Olivier de Kersauson:" The Cape Horn crossed, you knew that you were not going to die "
More info to come
Read also
Vendée Globe: His boat has become "blind", Amedeo forced to abandon