RORC Transatlantic Race - Emergency incident on board Walross 4
by RORC 20 Jan 10:52 AEDT
19 January 2026
The 2026 RORC Transatlantic Race got off to a flawless start from Marina Lanzarote for the 12th edition © Sailing Energy
On Monday 19 January 2026, the Race Committee of the Royal Ocean Racing Club (RORC) was notified of a serious incident involving a crew member on board the Nissen 56 yacht Walross 4, which is competing in the RORC Transatlantic Race.
The yacht, owned by ASV (Berlin, Germany), was located approximately 1500 nautical miles into the Atlantic Ocean, en route from Lanzarote to Antigua, when race organisers were informed that a crew member had been rendered unconscious following an onboard accident.
The RORC Transatlantic Race Director was immediately in touch with all relevant emergency authorities. The Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Delgada, the primary maritime rescue authority for the Azores region, assumed coordination of the response. As part of the operation, a nearby commercial vessel was diverted and successfully recovered the injured crew member from Walross 4.
The commercial vessel is now proceeding toward the Cape Verde Islands. When conditions and range permit, a helicopter transfer is planned to evacuate the crew member to the Azores, where further medical treatment will be provided.
The casualty's next of kin has been informed, and RORC remains in direct contact with Walross 4. It is in close coordination with the officials at ASV Yacht Club, Germany and continues to monitor the situation closely.
Walross 4 is one of 21 yachts competing in the 12th edition of the RORC Transatlantic Race. All yachts are required to comply with World Sailing Offshore Special Regulations 2025, Category 1, with RORC prescriptions, and the Racing Rules of Sailing.
For more information visit race website: rorctransatlantic.rorc.org.