Our skippers and Lorient are getting ready for the show.

With one month to go before the Défi Azimut, in the midst of the summer lull, not everyone is on vacation. 

Excitement is starting to build in Lorient: boats are being tuned, crews are on standby, and partners are finalizing their plans. These three back-to-back races combine intense competition with lively social highlights in the village among our IMOCA skippers.

Our skippers share their thoughts their ambitions, emotions, and what this event means to them and their sponsors, before setting off for the Runs, 48 intense hours, and the Tour de Groix.

The skippers and their words

Ambroggio Beccaria — Allagrande Mapei

“It’s the home race in Lorient. It’s spectacular! I want to put on a show with my boat!”

 Armel Tripon — Les P’tits Doudous

“It’s a race I really love. It’s a chance to compete against others in a warm and friendly spirit. ”

 Corentin Horeau — MACSF

“The Défi Azimut is a true classic! We’re inviting our sponsors to Lorient so they can enjoy the crazy atmosphere!”

Davy Beaudart — Bureau Vallée

“It’s symbolic: my very first solo race on the IMOCA Bureau Vallée!”

Élodie Bonafous — Association Petits Princes - Quéguiner

“For me, it’s the perfect balance between athletic goals and the joy of sharing our passion.”

 

 

Fabrice Amedeo — FDJ United - Ocean Calling

“The Défi Azimut is a must-attend event on the IMOCA circuit!”

 Jérémie Beyou — Charal

“The goal: to win the Défi Azimut again!”

 Manuel Cousin — Coup de Pouce

“I wouldn’t miss this race for anything in the world. It’s a huge pleasure for us, our team, and our sponsors.”

 Masa Suzuki — Milai - Furuno

“It’s much more than just a race. It’s a fantastic opportunity to gain experience, build connections, and share my adventure!”

 Nicolas d’Estais — Café Joyeux

“Building camaraderie with our partners, and the thrill of the 48-hour race!”

Pierre‑Louis Attwell — Resilient

“Three words to describe the Défi Azimut: competition, fun, and sharing with our partners! ”

Sam Goodchild — Macif Santé Prévoyance

“For me, it’s truly a race about sharing! A moment I love during the season.”

Sébastien Marsset — Foussier

“A perfect blend of what gets us excited: a demanding offshore race for the skippers and a really fun time with our partners!”

Violette Dorange — Initiatives Cœur

“I take part in the Défi Azimut every year! Through this race, I bring my passion to life for my sponsors.”

With four weeks to go before the start, these testimonials capture the essence of the Défi Azimut: the intensity of the competition, the pursuit of performance, and moments shared with partners and the public. Lorient is getting ready for a spectacular event—follow us so you don’t miss a thing during this week, September 14–20, when the skippers will bring the harbor life.