Marc Thiercelin, an emblematic figure in ocean racing, revealed an audacious project for the Vendée Globe 2028 in an interview with Le Figaro on Thursday, November 28. His aim: to demonstrate that it is possible to build and sail a high-performance, environmentally-friendly yacht, far removed from traditional materials such as carbon. This project raises technical and philosophical questions about the future of ocean racing and yachting.
A green Imoca
Building a wooden sailboat for a race as demanding as the Vendée Globe might seem nostalgic. Yet Marc Thiercelin refuses to take a backward-looking approach. His future Imoca, 18.28 meters long, will rely on alternative materials: wooden hull, biosourced resins, hemp sails and bamboo interior fittings. These choices reduce CO2 emissions by 70% during the manufacturing process, compared with a carbon boat.
The sailor wants to show that performance no longer has to come at the expense of the planet: " We're not going back to the oil lamp, but we can pave the way for the future of pleasure boating "he explains.
Cost reduction, a key challenge
In addition to environmental benefits, the construction of this yacht also aims to keep costs under control. A standard carbon Imoca requires a budget of around 3.5 million euros for the hull. Marc Thiercelin estimates that this cost will be reduced to 1.9 million thanks to the use of more affordable materials. With an estimated total budget of 5 million euros for this project, this approach could make ocean racing more accessible to other sailors, while raising awareness of new solutions within the nautical industry.
The support of recognized expertise
To make this challenge a reality, Marc Thiercelin collaborates with renowned naval architects, including Gildas Plessis and Renaud Banuls known for their innovations in nautical design. This team is committed to revisiting every element of the boat, while retaining traditional components where safety dictates. In terms of measurement, the mast and keel will remain one-design parts.
These experts also contribute their experience in the use of bio-sourced materials, already tested on a smaller scale in some regattas. The project could thus lay the foundations for a new era in racing yacht design.
Between sporting challenge and personal initiative
This project also reflects a personal journey for Marc Thiercelin. Trained as a cabinetmaker at the Ecole Boulle before becoming a sailor, he rediscovers his passion for woodworking here. "after 11 years of construction, c his will be the first wooden boat of my career. It's coming full circle "He studied cabinetmaking and marquetry at the École Boulle in Paris when he was young. At 68 in 2028, this challenge represents a double adventure: sailing a unique boat and proving that it's still possible to reinvent yourself at any age. His partner Estelle Denis who is enthusiastically following this project, shared on her social networks: " Always believe in your wildest dreams... "This simple yet profound message illustrates her support for her partner.
Measured ambitions for the Vendée Globe
Marc Thiercelin may not be aiming for victory, but he's hoping to make his mark. For him, the Vendée Globe is not just a competition, but also a showcase for raising public and industry awareness of crucial issues. " In the Vendée Globe, there are those who set out to win and those who want to thrill people "he sums up. This project, halfway between sporting challenge and ecological commitment, could well redefine the criteria for success in this type of race.
