Vendée Globe: Boris Herrmann's Yacht Damaged by Lightning Strike
The German sailor faces equipment challenges after a severe storm near Brazil, but continues to compete in sixth place in the solo round-the-world race.
- Boris Herrmann's yacht, Malizia-Seaexplorer, sustained damage to its electronics, including the radar and autopilot, after a nearby lightning strike during a storm off the Brazilian coast.
- The incident occurred on the 59th day of the Vendée Globe, a solo, non-stop, round-the-world sailing race known as one of the toughest in the sport.
- Herrmann had already overcome a personal challenge earlier in the week, climbing the 29-meter mast despite his fear of heights to repair critical rigging.
- The storm was described as one of the most intense Herrmann has ever experienced, with heavy rain, erratic winds, and waves that repeatedly knocked his boat flat on the water.
- Despite the setbacks, Herrmann remains in sixth place, competing closely with other sailors for a top-five finish, while race leaders Charlie Dalin and Yoann Richomme approach the final stretch to France.
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