The 10ᵗʰ edition of the Vendée Globe delivered a thrilling duel between Charlie Dalin and Yoann Richomme, two of the most technically advanced skippers of their generation. Dalin took a daring southern route near the Antarctic Exclusion Zone to escape the fleet, while Richomme closed the gap through the Pacific with remarkable tactical mastery. In the final stretch, Dalin’s ultra-optimized Macif Santé Prévoyance proved dominant in the Atlantic, allowing him to secure victory and set a new all-time race record of 64 days.

Sébastien Simon completed the podium with a clean, high-level race, confirming his place among the new elite. This landmark edition was defined by cutting-edge IMOCA design, fierce competition, and the fastest Vendée Globe ever recorded.

The 2020–2021 Vendée Globe was one of the most dramatic editions in the race’s history. Charlie Dalin was the first to cross the finish line, but Yannick Bestaven was declared the official winner after receiving a 10h15 time compensation for his role in the high-risk rescue of Kevin Escoffier, whose boat sank in the Southern Ocean. Louis Burton completed the podium in third position after a fast and consistent race.

Jean Le Cam, a veteran of the race, became a hero for his role in the rescue operation, earning global admiration and a 16h15 bonus. This edition was not only about speed and technology, but also about courage, solidarity, and seamanship at its finest. The widespread use of foiling IMOCAs once again pushed the boundaries of solo racing performance.

The 2016–2017 edition saw Armel Le Cléac’h finally claim victory after two consecutive second-place finishes. Sailing the innovative Banque Populaire VIII, he completed the race in just 74 days, setting a new course record. Alex Thomson finished close behind, pushing the pace to the limit. This was one of the fastest and most technologically advanced Vendée Globe editions ever.

In the 2012–2013 Vendée Globe, François Gabart, at just 29 years old, became the youngest winner in the race’s history. He finished in 78 days, setting a new record and narrowly beating Armel Le Cléac’h in an epic duel. This edition was celebrated for its high-speed performances and tight competition, marking a new era of foiling IMOCA monohulls.

The 2008–2009 Vendée Globe was a triumph of resilience and strategy. Michel Desjoyeaux made history by becoming the first sailor to win the race twice. Despite returning to port just after the start due to technical issues, he relaunched and overtook the entire fleet, completing the course in 84 days. His comeback victory remains one of the most legendary performances in offshore racing.

The 2004–2005 edition of the Vendée Globe was fiercely contested. Vincent Riou and his friend Jean Le Cam were locked in a head-to-head battle until the very end. Riou claimed victory after 87 days, demonstrating resilience and consistency. This edition is also remembered for the camaraderie between competitors and the tight finish, with multiple skippers arriving within hours of each other.

The 2000–2001 Vendée Globe delivered a high-stakes duel and a historic moment for women in offshore racing. Michel Desjoyeaux took first place in 93 days, while Ellen MacArthur finished just behind in second, becoming the youngest sailor and the first woman to reach the podium. Their performances captivated the public and redefined what was possible in solo sailing.

The 1996–1997 Vendée Globe is remembered for its drama and heroism. Christophe Auguin won the race in record time, while three daring rescues unfolded during the course: Raphaël Dinelli, Thierry Dubois, and Tony Bullimore were all saved under extreme conditions. The race also mourned the disappearance of Canadian sailor Gerry Roufs. It was an edition that revealed the dangers of the Southern Ocean and the solidarity among sailors.

The second edition of the Vendée Globe was marked by tragedy and resilience. The race saw the loss of two competitors—Mike Plant and Nigel Burgess—underscoring the perilous nature of solo ocean racing. Alain Gautier claimed victory after 110 intense days at sea, showcasing technical mastery and endurance. Despite its somber tone, this edition cemented the race’s place as a grueling test of skill and survival.

The inaugural Vendée Globe set sail in November 1989, launching what would become the world’s most extreme solo sailing race. Thirteen skippers braved the brutal, unassisted circumnavigation, facing icebergs, storms, and complete isolation. Titouan Lamazou emerged as the first-ever winner, completing the journey in 109 days and etching his name in maritime history. This first edition laid the foundation for a legendary race known as the "Everest of the Seas."