Why is Damien Guillou suddenly sailing NORTH — almost in the opposite direction?
In this latest GGR 2026 Window LIVE from aboard SOLAREM, Damien explains the unusual track now appearing on the race tracker.
Race Direction has warned him of a very strong low-pressure system developing in his area, with potentially severe winds. His priority is no longer making miles toward the finish — it is getting away from the worst of the system.
Damien has completely changed course and is heading north-northeast, aiming to reposition around 38° South before the stronger weather arrives.
“It’s almost like sailing backwards,” he explains — but right now, the distance to the finish simply isn’t important. The priority is getting clear of the strongest winds.
With limited weather information available onboard, Damien is following the information sent to him by Race Direction via Iridium satellite messages. In the meantime, he is already preparing SOLAREM for heavy weather: securing the deck, getting the boat into strong-wind configuration and preparing to stow everything below.
For now, conditions are surprisingly calm. Damien is sailing downwind under spinnaker, enjoying a relatively peaceful night before the weather changes.
Follow Damien and the entire 2026 Golden Globe Race fleet as they race solo, nonstop and unassisted around the world.
🌍 Golden Globe Race
⛵ Damien Guillou — SOLAREM
🎥 GGR Window LIVE
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