M Jean Le Cam

Jean Le Cam is a veteran of solo ocean racing and a beloved figure in the sailing world, renowned for his experience, dry wit, and indomitable spirit. Born on April 27, 1959, in Quimper, France, he began sailing competitively in the 1970s and has since become a fixture in elite offshore racing. Le Cam has participated in multiple Vendée Globe editions, famously finishing second in 2004–2005 and making headlines in 2020–2021 for rescuing fellow skipper Kevin Escoffier in the Southern Ocean. For his heroic actions, he received a time bonus and wide public acclaim, further solidifying his legendary status. Nicknamed “Le Roi Jean” (King Jean), he is admired for his old-school seamanship, technical know-how, and unfiltered honesty. He often races on older, optimized boats and demonstrates that experience and resilience can rival high-tech budgets. Le Cam’s popularity transcends the sailing world; he is viewed as a symbol of courage, humor, and humanity at sea. His decades-spanning career is a living tribute to passion, loyalty to sailing values, and unwavering authenticity.