Rules for Vendée Globe 2028 Released
by Vendée Globe Media 6 Nov 08:39 PST
The organizing committee has outlined the general framework for new regulations for the upcoming Vendée Globe edition. The essence of the race remains intact—a solo, non-stop, unassisted circumnavigation—and a cap of 40 skippers will be set for the starting line.
To qualify for the Vendée Globe 2028, participants must fulfill two criteria: complete a major solo competition and achieve a strong ranking in the IMOCA Globe Series Championship. These qualifying conditions aim for increased flexibility while still focusing on the competitive aspect, accommodating the unique characteristics of various project levels.
At present, the 2024 race commences in just four days, heralding the start of an extraordinary journey. Simultaneously, it represents a crucial early step toward joining the 2028 Vendée Globe launch. Notably, this tenth edition serves as the first solo challenge wherein competitors can earn points towards qualification for the round-the-world race in 2028.
Essential principles reaffirmed, with a limit of 40 entrants
The updated qualification guidelines are founded on the same core principles that have made the race iconic. The Vendée Globe remains a solo, non-stop, unassisted sailing race that traverses the three legendary capes: Cape of Good Hope, Cape Leeuwin, and Cape Horn.
Like this year, the maximum number of participants will also be capped at forty.
Environmental responsibilities for entrants
All participants will be sailing monohulls that comply with current IMOCA class regulations. There is an intention to enhance the longevity of the vessels. Consequently, boats with measurement certificates dated post-January 1, 2005, will be eligible for selection in Vendée Globe 2028, similar to this current 2024 edition.
As announced last February, the goal is to equip the entire fleet with oceanographic measuring instruments chosen by UNESCO, the leaders of this initiative. Over successive editions, these sensors will develop to allow for the collection and analysis of various data by scientists globally.
For the 2024 edition, the target was to outfit 50% of the fleet, a goal achieved with 25 skippers set to deploy oceanographic measuring tools on November 10.
Additionally, there is a goal for vessels to cease using fossil fuels to generate power for onboard devices, except for safety-related needs. Efforts will begin with the IMOCA class to establish conditions to meet this objective.
Two requirements to start in the Vendée Globe 2028
For the second instance, a four-year qualification framework will be established for entry into the forthcoming Vendée Globe. To qualify for 2028, participants must meet two conditions: the first is to finish within the time limit of a grade 2 solo race in the IMOCA Globe Series Championship, which cannot exceed 150% of the winner’s finish time.
Furthermore, competitors will accrue points for their participation in the IMOCA Globe Series Championship races from the Vendée Globe 2024 through June 30, 2028. The points awarded will vary based on the significance of the contested races.
Round-the-world races (including the Vendée Globe and The Ocean Race) are classified as grade 1, while races over 2,500 miles, such as the Route du Rhum and New York Vendée Les Sables d’Olonne, are assigned grade 2. Races between 1,000 and 2,500 miles are grade 3, and those under 1,000 miles are grade 4.
A more adaptable qualification approach
At the end of the four-year qualification cycle, the lowest three races performed by skippers will be excluded from the final score calculation. This allows certain races to be bypassed, enabling skippers to step away from the circuit for a period without negatively impacting their qualifications, accommodating situations like maternity leave, or recovery from injury or illness. Additionally, international teams engaging in public relations activities outside France likely won’t suffer penalties.
The organizer will retain three invitations or “wild cards” to be granted at its discretion following the qualification process.
Alain Leboeuf, President of the Vendée Globe and the Vendée Departmental Council, expressed his satisfaction with the new qualification system for Vendée Globe 2028. “It is the outcome of collaborative efforts with all stakeholders. We prioritized the competitive elements while factoring in the challenges faced by each skipper. The diversity committee we’ve established has been instrumental in this development, alongside the key principles proposed by the IMOCA class.”
Thus, the qualification process commences this Sunday with the grand start of the Vendée Globe 2024, marking the initial step toward the next edition!
In summary – Qualification criteria for Vendée Globe 2028
Complete a major solo race in the IMOCA Globe Series Championship (in a time equal to or less than the leader’s time with a 50% increase).
Be among the top 37 skippers in points standings.
Three invitations or “wild cards” may be allocated by the organizer.
