Leg one of The Ocean Race Europe began with a brisk 15-18 knot westerly breeze in Kiel, Germany, providing fast, flat-water foiling conditions for the IMOCA fleet.
But just minutes after the start yesterday (Sunday, 10 August), a dramatic collision between Team Holcim PRB (Switzerland) and Allagrande MAPEI Racing (Italy) forced both boats to return to port for damage assessment.
The incident occurred shortly after the fleet crossed the line, after a mile of racing, with side-to-side contact at high speed. All crew have been reported safe.
Team Holcim PRB skipper Rosalin Kuiper confirms damage to the hull: “We had to retire (suspend racing) from the race because of damage to our hull. It is very disappointing for our entire team, for Allagrande MAPEI and for The Ocean Race as well.
“We are going to assess the situation, see what can happen and make a plan from there. At the moment we are focussed to get the boat ready, repair the boat ASAP and be on the starting line, hopefully, in Portsmouth… We will overcome this. We have a very strong team. I wish I wasn’t here now but that’s the situation. We have to repair this damage and that is what we are going to do.”
Allagrande MAPEI skipper Ambrogio Beccaria describes the setback: “I don’t have any answer. I’m sad to be back here now. Especially because the team made a huge effort to be here and we only did one mile of the race. It’s super sad for our competitor, also. We are not alone in this story… We are checking the boat. For sure, we will not drop out until there is no chance. It doesn’t seem easy, but we will see.”
Race director for The Ocean Race Europe, Phil Lawrence, confirmed that Holcim PRB has filed a formal protest against Allagrande MAPEI Racing, with the matter to be addressed by the international jury. Lawrence adds: “At this stage, we understand both teams are hoping to rejoin the race, and we should know more about this on Monday (11 August).”
While the two damaged boats returned to Kiel, Biotherm seized their early advantage, leading the fleet to the Kiel Lighthouse scoring gate to claim the first two points of the race. Paprec Arkea followed closely for one point, with Canada Ocean Racing – Be Water Positive in third, ahead of Team Malizia and Team Amaala.
The opening day drew large crowds to Ocean Live Park, where the Sailor’s Parade created a vibrant pre-race atmosphere. From Kiel, the fleet now faces a challenging first 24 hours, with strong winds and high speeds expected until rounding the north of Denmark, where conditions are forecast to be east.
The route will take the fleet past busy shipping lanes, wind farms, and under the Great Belt Bridge before heading towards Portsmouth, UK.
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