2004–2005 Vendée Globe

The start of the 2004 race was watched by an estimated 300,000 people,^{[citation needed]} which took place in mild weather.^{[citation needed]} A fast start was followed by a few minor equipment problems, allowing the first racers to cross the equator just after 10 days.^{[citation needed]} This was three days faster than the previous race, with all of the starters still sailing.^{[citation needed]}

Attrition began on entry into the Roaring Forties: Alex Thomson diverted to Cape Town to make unassisted repairs and continue racing.^{[citation needed]} The fleet encountered a number of other problems. Hervé Laurent retired with serious rudder problems, Thomson abandoned, and Conrad Humphreys anchored to make unassisted rudder repairs.^{[citation needed]} Gear problems and abandonments continued, then the fleet ran into an area of ice, and Sébastien Josse hit an iceberg head-on.^[2]

The lead changed several times as the fleet re-entered the Atlantic.^{[citation needed]} The race remained close right to the finish, which saw three boats finish within 29 hours.^[3]

The first Race Director Denis Horeau returned to the role after 15 years to head the event management team.^[4]