M François Gabart

François Gabart is a celebrated French offshore sailor and naval engineer who rose to global fame after winning the 2012–2013 Vendée Globe. Born on March 23, 1983, in Saint-Michel-d’Entraygues, Gabart represents a new generation of high-tech, performance-driven sailors who combine athleticism, innovation, and precision. At just 29 years old, Gabart became the youngest skipper to win the Vendée Globe, completing the solo, non-stop circumnavigation in a record-breaking 78 days. His duel with Armel Le Cléac’h is considered one of the most thrilling in the race’s history. Beyond his youth, what impressed observers most was his calm leadership, strategic finesse, and flawless execution under pressure. A graduate of INSA and ENSAM engineering schools, Gabart brought a fresh perspective to ocean racing by integrating advanced data analysis and design optimization into his sailing campaigns. In 2015, he launched his own racing team, *MerConcept*, which quickly became a reference in the field of cutting-edge multihulls and IMOCA innovation. In 2017, Gabart made headlines again by setting a new solo round-the-world sailing record aboard the maxi-trimaran *MACIF*, completing the journey in just 42 days, 16 hours, and 40 minutes—a feat that redefined the boundaries of solo navigation. Gabart's career is marked by a blend of scientific rigor, competitive excellence, and visionary leadership. He remains one of the most influential figures in modern sailing, embodying the future of offshore racing.