Vendée Globe Skippers gather for Press Conference in Paris

On Thursday September 19, the Seine Musicale in Paris hosted the Vendée Globe press conference. The 40 skippers of the 2024 edition were presented, as well as many new features that will mark this 10th edition.

2024, An Anniversary Edition Celebrating Legends

Since 1989, the Vendée Globe has seen the birth of legends. These men and women have written the history of this unique race through their exploits. They have braved the elements, pushed back their limits, and, edition after edition, taken with them a share of dreams beyond the oceans. Their adventures embody the fundamental values of the Vendée Globe: commitment, surpassing oneself, sharing and the spirit of adventure. In 2024, the race celebrates its 10th edition!

Find out more about the Legends here

Maitre Coq V skipper Yannick Bestaven (FRA) with trophy during the Vendée Globe press conference, at La Seine Musicale in Boulogne-Billancourt, France, on September 19 - photo © Olivier BLANCHET / Alea / VG2024

Biodiversity Protection Zone

In order to minimize the risk of collisions between the IMOCA and the marine megafauna - made up of cetaceans, but also large fish such as sharks that come to feed or reproduce in these areas - Biodiversity Protection Zones will be determined before the start by the Share the Ocean scientific consortium in conjunction with the Vendée organization. This consortium is supported by the Vendée Globe Foundation endowment fund.

Alain Leboeuf (President SAEM Vendee) pictured during the Vendée Globe press conference at La Seine Musicale in Boulogne-Billancourt, France - photo © Olivier BLANCHET / Alea / VG2024

Alain Leboeuf, President of the Vendée Globe and the Vendée Department : "Protecting marine biodiversity is a priority for the Vendée Globe. In collaboration with Share the Ocean, we are setting up these protection zones to minimise our impact on the marine megafauna, and so continue this great human adventure with respect for the ecosystems we are crossing."

Visit the Village

Visitors commuting to the Vendée Globe village accounts for 63% of the total impact of the event. It is a major way of reducing emissions!

Aware that such a challenge cannot be met alone, the Vendée Globe has brought together public and private players, the Département de la Vendée, the town and conurbation of Les Sables d'Olonne, the Pays de la Loire Region, the SNCF Group, En Vendée, SyDEV and ADEME in particular to set up a complete range of low carbon footprint mobility solutions.

Prepare for your visit