During the Vendée Globe race on January 2, 2023, skipper Thomas Ruyant experienced treacherous weather off the coast of Uruguay. In fourth place, he suffered significant damage to his main sail due to 60-knot winds, leading to emotional distress as he assessed the destruction of his vital J2 sail. Despite ongoing challenges, Ruyant remains in the race while Charlie Dalin leads the pack, anticipating more favorable winds as competitors head toward the equator.