Charlie Dalin, French sailor and winner of the 2024-25 Vendée Globe solo round-the-world race, died June 11, 2026, at age 42 following a long battle with a rare form of gastrointestinal cancer [1, 2].
Dalin won the Vendée Globe in January 2025, completing the race in a record time of 64 days, 19 hours, 22 minutes and 49 seconds [1, 2]. After crossing the finish line, he was joined on his boat by his wife Perrine Le Pape and their son Oscar [1].
The sailor’s illness became known in late 2023 when he was diagnosed with a gastrointestinal stromal tumour just days before the start of the 2023 Transat Jacques Vabre race. Dalin withdrew from that race to undergo treatment [1, 2].
Despite his illness, Dalin returned to racing and achieved victory in the Vendée Globe. He previously finished second in the 2020-21 edition after being relegated due to a time compensation awarded to another skipper, despite initially crossing first [1].
Dalin published a book titled 'The Power of Destiny' chronicling his cancer battle [2].
His wife, Perrine Le Pape, announced his passing, stating, "It is with deep sadness that my family and I announce the passing of my husband, Charlie Dalin, following a long illness" [1].
