Violette Dorange has made history as the youngest skipper to complete the Vendée Globe, finishing 25th in the legendary solo race around the world.
At just 23 years old, French sailor Violette Dorange (Devenir) crossed the finish line of the Vendée Globe on Sunday, February 9, securing 25th place after an impressive 90 days, 22 hours, and 37 minutes at sea. With this feat, she becomes the youngest sailor ever to complete the race, breaking the previous record held by Swiss skipper Alan Roura and British sailor Ellen MacArthur.
Dorange, hailing from Charente-Maritime, sailed a foilless IMOCA yacht, arriving 26 days behind race winner Charlie Dalin. She crossed the finish line at 11:39 AM (GMT+1), just after Kojiro Shiraishi (DMG Mori) and ahead of Louis Duc (Fives Group – Lantana Environnement) and Sébastien Marsset (Foussier), expected to arrive later that day in Les Sables-d’Olonne.
A Social Media Sensation
Beyond her impressive sailing feat, Dorange has captivated social media audiences, amassing over 550,000 followers with behind-the-scenes footage of her journey. From mast repairs in rough seas to Christmas celebrations onboard, her videos brought global attention to the world’s toughest sailing race.
Thousands of supporters gathered at the port of Les Sables-d’Olonne to celebrate her arrival. A dedicated “Vio” fan section welcomed her with cheers, while she lit distress flares in celebration as she entered the harbor at 12:30 PM.
