Clarisse Crémer and Tanguy Le Turquais Cleared of Misconduct
In an announcement that has rippled through the sailing world, the International Jury appointed by the Vendée Globe and the French Sailing Federation has delivered its verdict on the allegations made against renowned sailor Clarisse Crémer and her husband, Tanguy Le Turquais. The controversy stemmed from an anonymous email received by the President of the French Sailing Federation on February 12, 2024, suggesting that Crémer, who competed in the 2020-2021 Vendée Globe aboard the Banque Populaire, received routing information from Le Turquais, which would contravene the race's rules.
Jury's Investigation and Findings
The investigation, prompted by the seriousness of the allegations, which called into question the core principle of the Vendée Globe as a solo, unassisted race, was meticulously conducted under Rule 69.2 of the Racing Rules of Sailing. Parties involved selected their representatives and advisors, and several witnesses, including routing expert Christian Dumard and Vendée Globe 2020 race management head Jacques Caraes, were called upon to present evidence.
Key to the investigation were 14 screenshots of WhatsApp messages between Crémer and Le Turquais, allegedly showing the exchange of routing information. However, upon closer examination and questioning, the International Jury concluded that the screenshots did not demonstrate that prohibited "routing" took place as defined by the Notice of Race (NoR). Instead, it was established that the exchanges were part of permitted communication and were primarily concerned with Crémer's safety and media obligations.
Conclusion and Decisions
In a detailed verdict, the International Jury stated that there was no misconduct on the part of either Clarisse Crémer or Tanguy Le Turquais. The screenshots, while initially suggestive of rule violations, ultimately did not demonstrate that Crémer sought or received routing advice that would influence her navigation decisions in a manner not allowed by the race rules. Furthermore, the exchanges that did occur were found to be in line with the exceptions permitted under exceptional circumstances for safety reasons and did not constitute outside help.
The decision brings closure to a situation that had the potential to mar the reputations of both Crémer and Le Turquais and casts a shadow over the 2020-2021 Vendée Globe. With the findings of the International Jury now public, it is clear that the integrity of both sailors remains intact, reaffirming the values of fair competition and the spirit of solo sailing that the Vendée Globe represents.
Alain Leboeuf, President of the Vendée Globe, expressed respect for the Jury's independence and the thoroughness of their investigation, stating that the conclusion reached serves to underscore the commitment of the sailing community to uphold the highest standards of fairness and integrity.
This decision not only clears Crémer and Le Turquais of any wrongdoing but also highlights the importance of rigorous procedural safeguards within competitive sailing to ensure that the spirit of the sport is preserved. The Vendée Globe continues to be a testament to the challenges and triumphs of solo sailing, with this episode serving as a reminder of the rigorous scrutiny and the high ethical standards that govern this prestigious race.
