This morning around 6 a.m., while sailing in 25 knots of wind and very rough seas, Fabien Delahaye injured his ankle while going to lower his spinnaker on the foredeck of his Class40. Since then, the skipper of LEGALLAIS, who is sailing for the fourth season under the colors of the Normandy-based company, has been in contact with the race doctor. The pain is extremely intense, and he is unable to put any weight on his foot.
Given the expected weather conditions, with a very deep low-pressure system forming near the Azores, Fabien, who was participating in his first Route du Rhum – Destination Guadeloupe and was among the favorites for this edition, has regretfully decided to abandon the race. He is not requesting assistance and is heading for La Coruña, which he should reach in 350 nautical miles, or 36 to 48 hours. He will then be able to undergo the necessary medical examinations.
Statement from Fabien Delahaye, skipper of LEGALLAIS:
“After a major crash, I took down the spinnaker. My ankle twisted to the side and I immediately felt a sharp pain. I didn't see exactly what happened because there was water everywhere when I took it down; I couldn't see anything. The upcoming wind conditions are dreadful, and unfortunately, I'm not fit enough to face them. It wouldn't be sensible to continue. I checked the weather forecast again. It's not about just going to the end for the sake of going. I should gybe now to avoid sailing upwind, but I'm unable to. I'm obviously disappointed; it's a very difficult decision to make. I have many people following me, especially within LEGALLAIS, and I would have loved to sail our Class40 across the Atlantic.”
Statement from Philippe Casenave-Péré, President of LEGALLAIS:
“We want to express our full support for Fabien during this particularly difficult time. We know his commitment, his determination, and his selflessness, and we understand how painful this decision to abandon the race is for him. But his safety and health must now take precedence over all other considerations. Offshore racing is an extremely demanding discipline, full of pushing oneself to the limit, intense emotions, but also challenges that remind us how unforgiving this sport can be for both boats and sailors. We are very proud of everything Fabien has accomplished under the LEGALLAIS banner over these four seasons. Our priority now is to ensure his safety in La Coruña, where he can receive the necessary medical care.”