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 heading for 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.
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