Route du Rhum 2026 preview: the biggest solo race in the world | The Foil Podcast Ep 44
The Foil PodcastShow Notes
What makes the Route du Rhum one of offshore sailing’s great spectacles?
Marcus Hutchinson joins Neil Cole and Andy Rice for a Route du Rhum special, exploring the history, personalities and high stakes of racing solo across the Atlantic from Saint-Malo to Guadeloupe.
From the dramatic first edition and the storms of 2002 to the latest foiling giants, we look at why this race means so much in France—and who to watch this time. Andy shares his experience aboard Gitana 18, while Marcus weighs up the Ultim and IMOCA contenders, the importance of preparation, and the hazards of racing at extraordinary speeds.
We also discuss offshore sailing’s sponsorship model, collision-avoidance technology, the enduring appeal of older boats, and how to follow the action.
00:00 Coming Up and Introductions 06:08 The Route du Rhum Explained 09:34 Origins of French Offshore Racing 16:03 Dramatic Finishes and Sailing Sponsorship 26:18 Storms, Rescues and Remarkable Returns 33:00 Aboard Gitana 18 37:36 Ultim Contenders and Collision Risks 46:52 IMOCA and Other Class Contenders 56:16 Why Winners Still Need Sponsors 58:13 Following the Race and Farewells
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