A Challenging and Human-Centred Class

Voici une traduction éditoriale adaptée à un guide annuel et à un lectorat international de la voile :

In the Channel–Atlantic region, the season opened with a fiercely contested CIC Normandy Channel Race. True to its reputation, the race was demanding and uncompromising, reminding everyone of the realities of our sport. Personally, I experienced a major incident at sea during the event. Fortunately, there were no injuries, but it served as a powerful reminder of an essential truth: sailing a Class40 means accepting a level of risk that is real, controlled, yet ever-present.

The season then continued with Les Sables–Horta–Les Sables, whose innovative format — an outbound leg sailed double-handed and a return leg sailed solo — left a lasting impression. An exceptionally close finish highlighted both the strength of the fleet and the maturity of the class. During the Fastnet Race, competing alongside other categories, our boats once again demonstrated their versatility and performance potential. In September, La Malouine 40 successfully combined, as it always does, sporting excellence with camaraderie — the hallmark values of the Class.

In the Mediterranean, momentum continued to build with the launch of the CIC Med Channel Race. The Paprec 600, the Massilia Cup Offshore – Trophée Corsica Med, and the Porquerolles Race provided further opportunities for Mediterranean-based Class40 teams to showcase both their performance and adaptability.

The season concluded with the Transat Café L'Or, the stage for an intense battle among the leading crews. The race ended with victory for Seafrigo, crowned 2025 Class40 Champion.

The 2026 season will place the spotlight on solo racing, culminating with the Route du Rhum – Destination Guadeloupe. It will also be marked by the launch of the Trin'40, a new 1,200-nautical-mile race starting and finishing in La Trinité-sur-Mer. Through this event, the Class40 is taking another important step forward by developing and organizing its own races in support of sailors and the continued growth and visibility of the class.

In a challenging economic environment, the Class40 continues to demonstrate the strength of a model built on cost control, team commitment, and responsible governance. This stability ensures the class remains attractive and allows us to look to the future with confidence. It promises many more exciting sporting battles in the years ahead, driven by dedicated crews and by the extraordinary boats that define the identity and success of the Class40.