Sailing : GLOBE40 Fleet Faces Severe Weather Challenges in South Atlantic

Competitors in the 5th leg of GLOBE40 face fierce conditions in the South Atlantic after rounding Cape Horn. Large calm areas and low-pressure systems from the Andes create tough challenges. Currently 400 miles northeast of the Falkland Islands, winds soar to 56 knots on WILSON, 61 knots on BARCO BRASIL, and 60 knots on FREE DOM. The situation is set to last at least 24 hours, testing crews and boats. CREDIT MUTUEL, once leading by 600 miles, now narrows to just 235 miles ahead in the latest rankings. Forecasts show a looming zone of calm that may pit them against rivals once again. Meanwhile, BELGIUM OCEAN RACING - CURIUM capitalizes on the low-pressure system to gain speed. The fleet targets Recife around March 15th, with BARCO BRASIL stirring excitement as they lead the traditional fishing boats. 2,000 miles remain to “the Venice of Brazil.”