Golden Globe Race to begin September 2026

The fourth edition of the Golden Globe Race is scheduled to begin on September 6, 2026, departing from and returning to Les Sables-d’Olonne, France. Seventeen entrants are preparing to attempt a solo, non-stop, unassisted circumnavigation of approximately 30,000 nautical miles.

To maintain the spirit of the original 1968 race, competitors are restricted to using technology and equipment similar to that available in the late 1960s. This means sailors must rely on celestial navigation rather than GPS, and they are prohibited from using modern satellite-based navigation aids or weather reports. Participants must use production boats between 32 and 36 feet designed prior to 1988.

Among the competitors is Isa Rosli from Abbotsford, British Columbia, who aims to become Canada’s first solo sailor to complete a non-stop circumnavigation under these conditions. Rosli will sail the Swedish 32-footer Olleanna, utilizing sextant skills for navigation and a windvane-operated self-steer system.