Canada Ocean Racing – Be Water Positive made the difficult decision to retire from the 2025 Rolex Fastnet Race following a technical issue with one of the boat’s key hydraulic control systems that stabilise the mast, provide mainsail controls and foil adjustment. All crew are safe, and there is no immediate danger.

The decision to withdraw was made just before midnight local time last night, as the crew determined that continuing would pose too great a risk ahead of a packed racing schedule in the weeks ahead.

“We’re retiring due to a technical issue with one of our main hydraulic control systems,” said the team from onboard. “We’re gutted — this is such an iconic race and it’s so disappointing not to finish it. But we’ve got six weeks of racing ahead of us in The Ocean Race Europe, and it’s critical that we stay focused on a repair in time for that series of races starting in just two weeks’ time.”

The yacht is now en route to Cherbourg for further assessment and repairs.

While disappointed to retire from one of the sport’s most iconic offshore races, the team is prioritising safety and readiness for the upcoming Ocean Race Europe series.

More updates will be shared once the team and vessel arrive safely in port.

Source : Canada Ocean Racing