Anticipating the skippers’ lockdown period

In line with the protocol put in place by the State authorities and the organisers of the Vendée Globe during the ongoing health crisis, the 33 skippers in the event must adhere to a lockdown of at least seven days prior to the race start. This necessary measure means that the teams must adapt their reverse planning accordingly. “It is prompting us to reorganise ourselves a little but it is what it is and it’s for an important reason. Aboard Prysmian Group, we’re going to step things up a bit to finish off the final details. The victualling and the bags of clothing must be completed this week so that I can switch all my attention to the weather and approach the last few days on shore with serenity,” explains the Italian sailor, who also points out that race organisation is currently considering allowing the skippers access to their boat a few days before the start, albeit outside the opening hours for the village. “The decision has not been made as yet, but I personally feel that I’ll need to come over to the boat. It’s hard to part with her at times like these and I think there’s a way of managing things in an intelligent manner”, says Giancarlo, who will naturally comply with the latest instructions, whatever they may be. “The context is such that we need to adapt, which is just what we’re doing”, concludes Giancarlo.