An outstanding track record under his leadership
Under the leadership of Ronan Lucas, Team Banque Populaire has enjoyed a string of successes, claiming iconic victories such as the Jules Verne Trophy in 2012, the Route du Rhum in 2014 and the Vendée Globe in 2017 with Armel Le Cléac'h. These results illustrate the company's rigorous management and ability to innovate in the preparation of its boats and skippers.
"What makes me proud is to have built a human adventure that puts the know-how of each individual at the service of a collective success" he confides.
A seamless transition with a complementary duo
Ronan Lucas' departure is accompanied by a restructuring of Team Banque Populaire. Erwan Steff takes over as general manager, while Sébastien Josse becomes sporting director. This experienced duo intends to maintain the course set by their predecessor, while bringing in a new dynamic.
"The way we work will be different, but we'll soon find a good balance together." says Armel Le Cléac'h. With their complementary skills, the two men will be responsible for steering the sporting and technical projects, with the Transat Café l'Or as their first major challenge.
Nautical know-how at the heart of the project
Team Banque Populaire is based on proven technical expertise and a constant commitment to the development of racing boats. With boats like the Maxi Banque Populaire XI, the team has established itself as a major player in competitive sailing. Managing boat design and optimization programs is a key challenge for the new duo at the head of the team.
"Ronan has a good grasp of what sailing is today and how it will evolve in the future" stresses Erwan Steff, who is committed to pursuing this vision.
Looking ahead to new challenges
With this handover, Team Banque Populaire enters a new era, still guided by the ambition to shine on the oceans. The objectives remain clear: to perform well in the major classics on the calendar, and to prepare for future challenges with rigor and determination. The 2025 season is already shaping up to be an intense one, with the determination to defend the titles won and continue the legacy of excellence built up over the years.
Ronan Lucas's departure marks the end of an important chapter, but the history of Team Banque Populaire continues to be written with the same commitment to performance and innovation.
