One Month to Go: the countdown is on for the Vendée Globe 2024
As we hit the one-month mark until the start of the 2024 Vendée Globe, excitement is building across the sailing world — and for us it’s no different. For the first time in 20 years Alex Thomson won’t be on the starting line, but he’s been there enough times to know exactly what’s ahead for the skippers, and one thing is certain: the pre-race phase is as intense and exciting as ever.
"The nerves must be setting in”
With just 30 days left, Alex reflects on what it feels like in these final weeks of preparation. “I’ve been there, and I know what they are going through,” says Alex. “Sometimes I think that the rookies have the better deal as they have no idea what to expect!”
"I’m genuinely happy not to be doing it this time around," Alex admits with a smile, "but I have to say, I can’t help but feel the nerves and excitement especially for Clarisse. The Vendée Globe is unlike any other race, and this time of final prep is where everything comes together for a team, the small details at this point can make all the difference.”
Big Shout-Out to Our Entire Team
Behind the scenes every member of the newly formed team has made a monumental effort to get to this point. "It’s been less than two years since we founded L’Occitane Sailing Team and I could not be prouder of everyone involved. From the technical team to those in the communications, finance and logistics, everyone has been working tirelessly to make sure that Clarisse and the boat will be in the best possible shape for the race," Alex says.
“It’s usually me in the spotlight but this time it really is Clarisse alongside out Team Director Emma Kettle who have led this campaign. Most Vendee projects are 4-5 years long and we have only formed the team last year, we are a hybrid international group of people – separated by the La Manche / British Channel and I won’t pretend it’s all been straight forward – but the start line is in sight and after the intense qualification process Clarisse had to go through that is already a victory in my book”.
40 Boats, 10th Anniversary of the Vendée Globe
This year’s race is extra special: it’s the 10th edition of the Vendée Globe, and 40 IMOCA 60 yachts will be taking to the start line in Les Sables-d’Olonne. "It’s going to be incredible to see 40 boats lined up for this historic race. I’m looking forward to seeing it from the other side for a change - especially given the technological leaps and foil packages we’ve seen over the last few years. It’s an exciting time for the sport," Alex adds.
Join Us in the Vendée Globe Village
The blue and yellow L’Occitane en Provence IMOCA will be berthed in the Vendée Village by 19 October when the village opens to the public. "We’re looking forward to being there, sharing this incredible moment with the fans. It’s always a great time to meet sailing enthusiasts and people who have no affiliation to sailing, connect with the teams, and celebrate what makes this race so special," says Alex.
Be sure to follow our channels for behind-the-scenes updates, insights from Alex, and exclusive content from the Vendée Village as we gear up for the big day.