Biotherm from France and Holcim-PRB from Switzerland are locked in a tight battle for the lead on Leg 3 of The Ocean Race Europe 2025 from Cartagena, Spain to Nice, France. Biotherm has been leading the European tour and gained two more valuable points at the scoring gate, maintaining their perfect scoreline. The teams faced challenging conditions, navigating between better headings closer to shore and stronger winds farther offshore. The upwind sailing along the Spanish coast has been intense, with little rest for the crews on the carbon IMOCA yachts due to fluctuating winds ranging from eight to 25 knots.
As the fleet sailed upwind towards the Balearic Islands, the crews had to balance heading and wind strength, making strategic decisions to optimize their positions. Team Malizia, trailing behind Biotherm and Holcim-PRB, emphasized the need to find a balance between wind angle and breeze strength. The crews faced an arduous workload due to frequent tacks in the upwind conditions, with Holcim-PRB helmsman Franck Cammas highlighting the physical demands on the crew. Despite the challenges, the teams remained closely grouped, with only a mile separating the leaders by midday.
Franck Cammas stressed the importance of strategic sailing maneuvers and the crew’s physical fitness in maintaining their competitive edge. The intense competition saw Biotherm and Holcim-PRB navigating through the narrow gap between Cap de la Nau and an exclusion zone, setting their course along the northern coast of Ibiza towards Mallorca. The chasing pack, led by Team Paprec Arkéa, closely followed the leaders, highlighting the competitive nature of the race. The crews are expected to continue along the northern coast of Mallorca, passing north of Menorca before heading towards the French coast during the night.
The challenging conditions and strategic decisions made by the teams have kept the race exciting and competitive. Biotherm’s strong performance and perfect scoreline have positioned them as frontrunners in The Ocean Race Europe 2025, with Holcim-PRB in close pursuit. The physical demands on the crews, coupled with the tactical sailing required in the upwind conditions, have tested the sailors’ skills and endurance. The battle between the French and Swiss crews showcases the level of competition in this leg of the race.
As the teams continue their journey towards Nice, France, the competition is expected to intensify, with each crew vying for strategic advantages to gain the lead. The Ocean Race Europe 2025 Leg 3 demonstrates the skill, teamwork, and endurance required for competitive offshore sailing. The close formation of the leading teams sets the stage for an exciting conclusion to this leg, as they navigate the challenging waters of the Mediterranean towards the French coast.
Tags: sports
Read more on sail-world.com