Safety over ambition: Norbert Sedlacek Koch makes a U-turn

Innovation Yachts Open60AAL © Innovation Yachts

The second night at sea was already quite intense. Skipper Norbert Sedlcek Koch had to tack against 40 knots of wind through a rocky sea.

Today, at 2:05 PM UTC+2, Norbert informed his shore crew that the Innovation Yachts Open60AAL has hit an unidentified floating object and the rudder fixation had broken. Sadly, as the rudders are essential to steer a boat in the right direction, he had to turn around once again. It was a hard but obvious decision for the experienced Vendée Globe-finisher to make and although he is very disappointed to choose safety over challenge, it seems like the only choice to take. Consequently, he is heading back to Les Sables d'Olonne.

Norbert together with his Innovation Yachts team will analyze the situation closer and see what can be done. Further information will be shared after Norbert's arrival.