Geronimo is on its way back to Brest

While off the North coast of Brazil at 10° south, the trimaran Geronimo abandoned its attempt this morning to break the Jules Verne record because of mechanical problems.

A steering problem rendered the boat un-manoeuvrable at high speed and under certain conditions, and the impossibility of making repairs at sea have forced the Jules Verne Trophy record-holder to turn back towards Brest.

The primary concern of the sponsors Cap Gemini Ernst & Young and Schneider Electric has always been for the safety of the crew and the boat. Breaking the record is secondary. Therefore it is for safety reasons that Olivier has made this decision in full agreement with the sponsors.