In this week's episode of the Malizia Vendée Show, Holly Cova is joined by Will Harris and Cole Brauer as Boris Herrmann battles extreme conditions in the North Atlantic, closing in on the Vendée Globe finish - First streamed live on 01/27/2025

The brutal weather Boris is facing is the main topic of conversation this week - massive waves, gusts up to 65 knots, and a challenging route to the finish in Les Sables-d’Olonne. Will explains the unpredictable storm systems rolling through, making the final approach a tactical and physical challenge. Cole, still sailing in the Southern Ocean, shares her own experience with wild conditions, including a chaotic moment mid-show when she had to rush off to deal with an autopilot issue.

Despite everything, Boris remains incredibly positive, even asking Cole for Netflix recommendations to pass the time. The team discusses his resilience, the mental game of offshore racing, and the importance of simply finishing after such a demanding race. With uncertainty around when and how Boris will cross the line - especially given rough conditions that could delay his arrival - the team is keeping a close eye on the forecast, ready to welcome him home whenever he makes it in.

Music by Rex Banner from Artist.io
Recorded by Holly Cova, Will Harris & Cole Brauer
Produced by Holly Cova & Dani Devine 
Edited by Dani Devine

Copyright Team Malizia SAS and Boris Herrmann Racing GmbH

In this week’s episode of the Malizia Vendée Show host Holly Cova is joined by Will Harris, Cole Brauer and Special Guest Pifou Dargnies, Team Malizia Technical Director - First streamed live on 20/01/2025

It has been an eventful couple of weeks for Boris Herrmann as he approaches the finish line of the Vendée Globe, and this week the team dives into the series of technical challenges he has faced - from a lightning strike that knocked out most of his instruments, to a second demanding mast climb, and finally, the biggest setback - the loss of his starboard foil after a collision with an unknown object. 

As always, Will gives a weather update, explaining the difficult upwind conditions ahead, while Pifou provides insight into the foil damage, why Boris chose to secure it rather than cut it away, and the challenges that decision now presents.

Despite everything, Boris remains focused and determined, navigating the North Atlantic in a compromised but still-racing boat. Cole and Will discuss the mental resilience needed to push through setbacks, and Holly reminds viewers to leave messages of support for Boris, who reads every comment. With an intense final week ahead, the team looks toward the finish in Les Sables-d’Olonne, hoping for some smoother sailing in the home stretch.

Pifou Dargnies is the Technical Director at Team Malizia, overseeing the technical aspects of the Malizia-Seaexplorer campaign. With over a decade of experience, Pifou previously led the Charal IMOCA programme, achieving standout results scuh as third place in the 2022 Route du Rhum. His career began as an engineer with Roland Jourdain, and he competed in the 2013 Mini Transat. A longtime friend of skipper Boris Herrmann, Pifou focuses on optimising the yacht’s performance for events like The Ocean Race and the Vendée Globe.

Learn more about Pifou here: www.team-malizia.com/press-releases/pierre-francois-pifou-dargnies-joins-team-malizia-as-technical-director

Music by Rex Banner from Artist.io
Recorded by Holly Cova, Will Harris, Cole Brauer & Pifou Dargnies
Produced by Holly Cova & Dani Devine 
Edited by Dani Devine

 Copyright Team Malizia SAS and Boris Herrmann Racing GmbH

The team are spread wide in this episode on the Malizia Vendée Show, with Holly Cova dealing in from Tenerife, Will Harris joining from the UK, Cole Brauer joining from the Southern Ocean and Dr. Léa Olivier joining from onboard Polarstern, a German research icebreaker that is used to study the Arctic and Antarctic - First streamed live on 06/01/2025

As always, Will provides updates on Boris’ race strategy, the current fleet positions, and the impact of South Atlantic weather patterns on the race dynamics. Cole shares her recent challenges in the Southern Ocean, including adjusting to lighter winds and preparing her boat for the tougher conditions ahead. 

Léa shares the importance of data collected by boats like Malizia-Seaexplorer, explaining how it’s used to track CO2 absorption in the Ocean. Her anecdotes about life on a research ship, spotting penguins and albatrosses, and deploying deep-sea instruments painted an engaging picture of science in action.

Boris was also a big focus, with updates on his mental resilience and an upcoming mast climb to fix a vital component of the running backstay. Will broke down the technicalities of the repair and its significance for Boris’ performance. The conversation turned reflective, with Cole sharing her own experiences of solo mast climbs and the mental strength required.

The show wrapped up on a light note, with everyone sharing their favourite sailing books.

Dr. Léa Olivier is a scientist at the Alfred Wegener Institute, specialising in ocean and climate research, with a focus on the Southern Ocean's carbon sink and its response to climate change. Her work investigates how physical Ocean processes impact CO₂ exchange between the Ocean and atmosphere. Dr. Olivier collaborates with Team Malizia by utilising data collected through their onboard scientific equipment, such as the Ocean Pack, which measures Oceanic CO₂ levels. Her expertise bridges scientific research and offshore sailing, contributing valuable insights to global climate studies.

Music by Rex Banner from Artist.io
Recorded by Holly Cova, Will Harris, Cole Brauer & Dr. Léa Olivier
Produced by Holly Cova & Dani Devine 
Edited by Dani Devine 

Copyright Team Malizia SAS and Boris Herrmann Racing GmbH

In this episode of the Malizia Vendée Show, the focus is on audience Q&A. Holly is joined, as always, by Will Harris and Cole Brauer, who this week calls in from 600 nautical miles off Brazil - First streamed live on 30/12/2024

This week the team explore key topics such as the fleet’s positioning, the tactical challenges the competitors face, and the unpredictable weather systems shaping the race. Will delivers an in-depth weather analysis, offering insights into strategies for tackling low-pressure systems. Cole shares her current onboard experiences, including preparing for the Southern Ocean by securing the boat and managing anxiety as conditions intensify.

Audience questions covered everything from personal challenges, like sleep deprivation, loneliness, and the immense effort it takes to balance life at sea, to the importance of preparation, both physical and mental. Additionally, the team answer questions about career paths in sailing, onboard safety, and life after a solo race, offering heartfelt insights into the sacrifices and resilience required.

Music by Rex Banner from Artist.io
Recorded by Holly Cova, Will Harris & Cole Brauer
Produced by Holly Cova & Dani Devine 
Edited by Dani Devine

Copyright Team Malizia SAS and Boris Herrmann Racing GmbH

In this week’s episode of the Malizia Vendée Show host Holly Cova is joined by Will Harris, Cole Brauer and Special Guest Pifou Dargnies, Team Malizia Technical Director - First streamed live on 23/12/2024

The episode dives into Boris Herrmann’s journey through the challenging Southern Ocean as he passes the remote Point Nemo. Will provides an in-depth weather analysis, highlighting the unpredictable conditions and upcoming strategy shifts as Boris and the fleet approach Cape Horn. Pifou explains the technical challenges onboard, including the foil rake issues, emphasising Boris’s resilience and the team's preparation for such scenarios.

A key highlight includes Boris passing Yannick Bestaven, with both sailors exchanging cheerful greetings amidst towering waves. The crew reflects on the friendship and respect between competitors, the harsh realities of the Southern Ocean, and the significance of maintaining morale during the holidays.

The team also shares their personal Christmas traditions at sea, from Cole’s traveling Christmas tree, to Will’s dedication to razors for his “non-beard.” As the show closes, the team reflects on the unique challenges and triumphs of Ocean racing, looking ahead to the critical moments yet to come as Boris and the fleet approach Cape Horn.

Pifou Dargnies is the Technical Director at Team Malizia, overseeing the technical aspects of the Malizia-Seaexplorer campaign. With over a decade of experience, Pifou previously led the Charal IMOCA programme, achieving standout results scuh as third place in the 2022 Route du Rhum. His career began as an engineer with Roland Jourdain, and he competed in the 2013 Mini Transat. A longtime friend of skipper Boris Herrmann, Pifou focuses on optimising the yacht’s performance for events like The Ocean Race and the Vendée Globe.

Learn more about Pifou here: www.team-malizia.com/press-releases/pierre-francois-pifou-dargnies-joins-team-malizia-as-technical-director

Music by Rex Banner from Artist.io
Recorded by Holly Cova, Will Harris, Cole Brauer & Pifou Dargnies
Produced by Holly Cova & Dani Devine 
Edited by Dani Devine

 Copyright Team Malizia SAS and Boris Herrmann Racing GmbH

In this episode of the Malizia Vendée Show, Holly Cova is joined by Will Harris and Cole Brauer, along with special guest Chris Pratt, Team Malizia Co-Skipper of Leg 4 on the 2022-23 Ocean Race - First streamed live on 16/12/2024

Together the team discuss Boris Herrmann’s progress through the South Atlantic during the Vendée Globe, with Will providing expert insights into the challenging weather conditions and navigation strategies ahead.

Chris shares his experiences from the Ocean Race, comparing the teamwork and dynamics of crewed sailing to the solitary journey Boris is undertaking. Cole reflects on her solo circumnavigation, offering a personal perspective on the endurance and mindset needed for long stretches alone at sea.

The team also highlights the critical role of shore support and preparation in tackling the upcoming Southern Ocean leg. With a mix of anecdotes, expertise, and a shared passion for offshore sailing, this episode is packed with engaging stories and insights for sailing enthusiasts and fans following Boris’ journey.

Chris Pratt is a French professional sailor from Marseille, with over 18 years of offshore racing experience. He has participated in prestigious events such as the Solitaire du Figaro and Transat Jacques Vabre, and joined Team Malizia for Leg 4 of The Ocean Race in 2023. Currently, Pratt leads an Ocean Fifty campaign, aiming for victory in the 2026 Route du Rhum, with the trimaran Wind of Trust – Fondation pour l’Enfance. As co-founder of MARSAIL, he integrates the challenges of sailing with innovative corporate solutions.

Music by Rex Banner from Artist.io
Recorded by Holly Cova, Will Harris, Cole Brauer & Chris Pratt
Produced by Holly Cova & Dani Devine 
Edited by Dani Devine 

Copyright Team Malizia SAS and Boris Herrmann Racing GmbH

In this exciting episode of the Malizia Vendée Show, Holly Cova is joined by Will Harris, Cole Brauer, and special guest Boris Herrmann, calling in from onboard Malizia-Seaexplorer to share a firsthand look at his Vendée Globe journey - First streamed live on 09/12/2024

The episode kicks off with Will’s weather update, highlighting the challenges facing the fleet. Boris updates us from the Southern Ocean, where fog, relentless waves, and a damaged foil system are pushing his resilience to the limit. He shares uplifting stories of camaraderie with his fellow competitors, the joy of discovering surprise gifts onboard, and a touching radio exchange with the Crozet Islands team.

Amidst the race's gruelling demands, Boris stays upbeat, reflecting on fan support and finding humour in everyday moments—like the adventure of making pancakes in stormy seas. Meanwhile, Cole provides a more laid-back update from her delivery trip to Australia. 

Music by Rex Banner from Artist.io
Recorded by Holly Cova, Will Harris, Cole Brauer & Boris Herrmann
Produced by Holly Cova & Dani Devine 
Edited by Dani Devine

 Copyright Team Malizia SAS and Boris Herrmann Racing GmbH

In this episode of the Malizia Vendée Show, host Holly Cova is joined by Will Harris, Cole Brauer, and Pierre Casiraghi, co-founder of Team Malizia and Vice President of the Yacht Club de Monaco - First streamed live on 02/12/2024

The team explores life onboard during the race, touching on Boris’ rigorous solo routine, including his approach to sleep, weather strategy, and managing food in extreme conditions. Will gives a detailed breakdown of the upcoming storm system in the Southern Ocean, while Cole shares her own experience of navigating through similar challenges, underscoring the resilience required to compete at this level. Pierre gives an insight into his close partnership with Boris, reflecting on years of working and racing together, and the shared experiences that have shaped their approach to Ocean racing.

Pierre Casiraghi is the co-founder of Team Malizia, alongside skipper Boris Herrmann, and serves as the Vice President of the Yacht Club de Monaco. In 2019, Pierre co-skippered Malizia II for a transatlantic voyage, transporting climate activist Greta Thunberg to the UN Climate Action Summit in New York, promoting sustainable Ocean travel. He plays a key role in supporting the team’s competitive ambitions and environmental education initiative, My Ocean Challenge.

Music by Rex Banner from Artist.io
Recorded by Holly Cova, Will Harris, Cole Brauer & Pierre Casiraghi
Produced by Holly Cova & Dani Devine 
Edited by Dani Devine

 Copyright Team Malizia SAS and Boris Herrmann Racing GmbH

In this episode of the Malizia Vendée Show, host Holly Cova is joined by co-skipper Will Harris, Cole Brauer, and Vendée Globe Race Director Hubert Lemonnier - First streamed live on 25/11/2024 

Together, the team dives into a packed agenda covering strategy, weather, and race rules. Hubert gives a behind-the-scenes look at managing the Vendée Globe. Leading a team of five, he monitors the fleet around the clock, ensuring safety and fair play. With a record 40 boats in this edition, his role involves overseeing everything from emergency response to enforcing the "no outside assistance" rule—a fundamental part of the race's spirit.

Will also breaks down the current weather patterns influencing the fleet, from South Atlantic trade winds to the crucial low-pressure systems propelling the frontrunners toward Cape Town.

Hubert Lemonnier, is the Race Director for the 2024 Vendée Globe. Originating from La Rochelle, France, he has over fifteen years of experience in offshore racing. Lemonnier began his career in race management with the 2010 Barcelona World Race and has since been involved in multiple editions of the Vendée Globe, including 2012, 2016, and 2020. Prior to his current role, he served as the sports and operations manager for the IMOCA class starting in October 2021. In the 2024 Vendée Globe, he leads a team comprising Jacques Caraës, Claire Renou, Pierre Hays, and Yann Eliès, ensuring the safety and fairness of the race.

Music by Rex Banner from Artist.io
Recorded by Holly Cova, Will Harris, Cole Brauer & Hubert Lemonnier
Produced by Holly Cova & Dani Devine 
Edited by Dani Devine
 
Copyright Team Malizia SAS and Boris Herrmann Racing GmbH

In this episode of the Malizia Vendée Show, host Holly Cova is joined by Will Harris, Cole Brauer, and Mindset Specialist, Scott Stevenson - First Streamed Live on 18/11/2024

Together, they explore the mental and physical challenges of solo Ocean racing, focusing on resilience, preparation, and the unique mindset required for the Vendée Globe.

Will provides updates on Boris Herrmann’s progress and the unusual trade wind conditions impacting the fleet, Scott shares techniques for staying composed and managing stress in high-pressure situations, while Cole reflects on her solo circumnavigation and how sailors adapt to setbacks and isolation.

Scott Stevenson is "an internationally renowned Mindset Specialist with over 25 years experience". In the lead up to the Vendée Globe, Scott helped Boris Herrmann prepare mentally by focusing on clarity, resilience, and emotional regulation. Together, they worked on building self-belief and staying grounded during setbacks. Scott also encouraged Boris to focus on the bigger picture, personal growth and spreading his message on sustainability, rather than just winning. These lessons have helped Boris stay strong and committed through the race’s toughest moments.

Learn more about Scott's work here: www.themindsetspecialist.com

Read more about A Winning Mindset here: www.team-malizia.com/news/a-winning-mindset-the-mental-edge-for-vendee-globe-sailors

Music by Rex Banner from Artist.io
Recorded by Holly Cova, Will Harris, Cole Brauer & Scott Stevenson
Produced by Holly Cova & Dani Devine 
Edited by Dani Devine
 
Copyright Team Malizia SAS and Boris Herrmann Racing GmbH