Route du Rhum Will Feature 118 Solo Skippers
The 13th edition of the Atlantic sailing race is set to depart Saint-Malo on November 1, 2026.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Running
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Organizers have announced a 118-skipper fleet for the 2026 Route du Rhum, which marks the 13th edition of the historic race. Pamela Lee will compete, becoming the first Irishwoman to enter the event.
Why it matters
The race serves as a major test for solo sailors across six distinct classes, pushing both technical endurance and individual navigation skills. Its wide participation highlights the growth of international competitive solo sailing.
The fleet will navigate a 3,500-mile Atlantic course across six classes, including Ultim, IMOCA, and Class40. This 13th edition involves a record-level entry of 118 solo sailors.
The players
Pamela Lee
She is a professional sailor who has become the first Irishwoman to join the Route du Rhum entry list.
The details
The official presentation of the full fleet took place at the Folies Bergère in Paris. Sailors are currently in their final month of intensive preparations before heading to the start line in Saint-Malo.
Timeline
September 22, 2026: The official race presentation was held in Paris.
November 1, 2026: The race is scheduled to start from Saint-Malo.
Season Trajectory
As the 13th edition of this event, the race continues a long-standing tradition of transatlantic solo competition. This year's entry list expands the competitive landscape across six sailing classes as skippers prepare for the long journey to Guadeloupe.
The competition will span six distinct classes, meaning fans should track how varied vessel technology impacts overall arrival times at Pointe-à-Pitre. Pamela Lee's inclusion marks a significant shift in national representation for the Irish sailing community.
The takeaway
The Route du Rhum remains one of the premier challenges in solo maritime racing. Following the fleet's journey requires an understanding of the diverse sailing classes that define this 3,500-mile endurance event.
What happens next
The fleet will assemble at the race village in Saint-Malo before the official start of the race on November 1, 2026.
Further reading
For more information on major competitive events, visit the Running section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Ireland Afloat.
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