The start of the Vendée Globe in 2016. -

Maxime Le Pihif / SIPA

For a global event, it will ring hollow on Sunday in Les Sables d'Olonne.

After the total closure of the village decided on a week ago, a new ax fell on Wednesday evening for the organizers of the Vendée Globe, a race which had gathered 450,000 spectators four years ago.

We knew that the departure would be without public, but this time, the prefecture of Vendée issued a decree which imposes “a total closed door within the framework of the state of health emergency”.

# COVID19 Departure of the Vendée Globe 2020 # VG2020 behind closed doors as part of the state of health emergency and the reconfinement throughout the national territory.

Press release on https://t.co/Vtfh7i2qUZ pic.twitter.com/bJXhXG1yu6

- Prefect of the Vendée (@PrefetVendee) November 4, 2020

It prohibits access to the docks, embankments and the beach, from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m.

"With the exception of the security and rescue services, public service agents in the performance of their duties and journalists accredited by the Vendée Globe organization", no one will be allowed to walk on the beach, the embankment or the docks of the channel.

No way for residents to take a morning jog, walk their doggie etc.

Many controls in perspective

Many law enforcement agencies will be present to enforce this ban.

"A system of prohibition of access and control will be implemented to ensure compliance with this measure behind closed doors", explains the prefect.

Only residents of the axes concerned will be authorized, with proof of residence and derogatory certificate.

The lucky ones who own balconies, whether at La Chaume or at Les Sables d'Olonne, will be able to take advantage of the start of this 9th edition.

Again, there will be no question of inviting friends to enjoy the show ...

Sport

Vendée Globe: "Somewhere, the skippers are lucky to be doing this race in this context," said Armel Le Cléac'h

Sport

Containment: The Vendée Globe village will close, a start without confirmed public

  • Covid 19

  • Coronavirus

  • Prefecture

  • Prefect

  • Sport

  • Vendée Globe

  • Sail