Removal of the Ultim circuit
This is the end of a longstanding partnership for François Gabart and the Macif Group. Indeed, the latter has decided to withdraw from the Ultime circuit and concentrate on its other sponsorships in IMOCA (Charlie Dalin's Apivia) and Figaro Bénéteau with the Skipper Macif programme.
"We have made the decision to end the Ultim program and turn a page in the partnership that has linked us to François Gabart for 10 years now. This period, marked by victories and records will have allowed the greatest number of people to experience moments of rare intensity. Some great adventures are still to come on the IMOCA and Figaro circuits" explains Pascal Michard, Chairman of the Macif Group.
Insured construction for the new Ultim
While François Gabart understands and accepts this decision, it is nevertheless "a difficult time" to live for the professional navigator. "I've had some pretty extraordinary moments with the Macif, but we've got plenty of assets to bounce back from. We're building a new boat that will be launched in June 2021 and we're going to do everything we can to sail it in new colours."
Indeed, the two partners had launched the construction of a new Ultimate, whose central hull, ironically, arrived in Mer Concept's concarnois shed the day the announcement was made that the Macif Group was withdrawing from the project alongside François Gabart.
However, the construction of the vessel is carried out on behalf of Macif, which is the shipowner. "We have the budget to ensure construction and testing at sea after launch. Of course, we have the possibility of selling it to other structures, but I don't want to. I'd like to buy this boat back and go through with the construction, but that's not possible for our structure. I have built it in my image and it will be a real flying boat, which will fly even faster and even sooner." explains the skipper.
A strong desire to sail
After a period of rest last February - François Gabart had been replaced at short notice by Pascal Bidégorry - the sailor is more than ever keen to get back out to sea. "My desire to sail on these Ultimate boats is intact and even stronger after this period of confinement. We're planning a crewed round-the-world trip a few months after the launch. It's a brutal upheaval, but we're going to readjust and rebuild this project in a different way. It's a fabulous boat and I really want to sail it and continue sailing as quickly as possible. I think I'm in the best position to make this new boat work, but to do that I need to find a new partner or partners
François Gabart is therefore looking for a buyer - sponsor, ship owner, sponsors... - for "may this ship continue to shine." And to add "I really want to sail on these beautiful boats. To fly around the world on these boats. The desire is still there and it's still strong and it's still growing and I'm going to do everything I can to make it happen."
The ex-trimaran Macif is for sale
At the same time, the former trimaran Macif is for sale at a very attractive price, even if the sailor is unable to give a precise amount. He is available with his team to sail and accompany a team or crew in the handling of the boat.
Navigating other media
"All I want to do is be on eau?!" François Gabart hopes that the field of possibilities opens up to offer him new opportunities. "I'm reinventing myself to navigate other media in the coming weeks or months. I've always wanted to sail on these boats, so I'm gnawing on the brakes. I'll have the opportunity to sail Apivia with Charlie Dalin and to accompany Erwan and Pierre in the Figaro, so I'll be sailing in the next few weeks."
