After a major keel damage on December 20th, Paul Meilhat, who was in 3rd position in the rankings at the time on his IMOCA SMA, decided to divert. He had noticed a major 40 cm crack on his keel jack, a part that allows the keel to tilt.
After informing the race directors, the skipper had chosen to head for either New Zealand or Polynesia. In the end it was the second that he chose, even though it is less equipped to accommodate a 60-foot boat, but better situated in relation to the weather conditions. On site, he will receive a new keel jack, found by his shore team at Maître Coq.
He made his retirement official by notifying the race management on December 24th. He explains his choice in a video of the race, made on Christmas Day.
"The Vendée Globe is a race that is both incredible and cruel... Maybe that's why it's so beautiful. It won't be this time, but I'm keeping a positive outlook. Thanks to the SMA Group and all the people who made this dream come true."
