The parade: IMOCA in the heart of Lorient harbour for the first time!

After the races, it was time for the grand parade, which for the very first time saw the entire fleet sail into the heart of the city of Lorient, at the foot of the peristyle and the Maison de l'Agglomération. Honours went to the women, as Initiatives Cœur, led by Sam Davies and Violette Dorange, opened the exhibition sailing event at 4.30 pm.

A choreographed display under mainsail, timed by race director Francis Le Goff, who is well versed in the exercise, having been the master of ceremonies for the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympic Games on the Seine in 2024. Still carried by the unifying and creative spirit that is the hallmark of this event organised by Azimut, the boats sailed one after the other past the Pointe de Bernoulli, accompanied by the music of local artist Youn Kamm on the trumpet. This site bears witness to the transformation of the former submarine base into a place dedicated to ocean racing. It was a beautiful symbol to conclude this day of exhibition, in the heart of a region with a strong maritime tradition, ahead of tomorrow's 48 Hours, the flagship event of the Défi Azimut Lorient Agglomération, which promises to be more tactical than ever...