A Thrilling Adventure on the High Seas: Sodebo Ultim 3 Keeps the Lead in Quest for the Jules Verne Trophy

Published: 15 Jan 2026
In their daring pursuit of the Jules Verne Trophy, the distinguished team on board Sodebo Ultim 3 remains in the lead after a month.

The team aboard the Sodebo Ultim 3 has been relentlessly pursuing the coveted Jules Verne Trophy for a month now. With stalwarts like Thomas Coville, Benjamin Schwartz, Frédéric Denis, Pierre Leboucher, Léonard Legrand, Guillaume Pirouelle, and Nicolas Troussel on board, the team embarked on this audacious journey on December 15th. Their journey so far has been marked by record-breaking times and awe-inspiring moments.

Surpassing challenges in the form of the three daunting capes - Good Hope, Leeuwin, and Horn - they have made remarkable progress, consistently maintaining an impressive average speed of 30 knots (56 km/h). However, they remain steadfast and focussed on their ultimate goal - breaking the round-the-world record held by IDEC Sport since 2017.

Even as their journey intensifies, the crew remains dedicated and driven; every milestone has been met with grit and determination. While they may have a nerve-wrecking journey ahead, Thomas Coville voices the sentiment of the crew, asserting that the boat and the crew are performing at 100%.

As they make their way towards the equator, the goal is clear and in sight - to cross the finish line before January 25th. A testament to their skill, determination, and unwavering courage, the quest for the Jules Verne Trophy continues to inspire awe and admiration.