B&G supports Francesca Clapcich’s Vendée Globe campaign

B&G has joined Team Francesca Clapcich Powered by 11th Hour Racing as an official supplier, supporting the Italian-American skipper’s campaign to compete in the 2028 Vendée Globe.

Clapcich’s 60ft foiling IMOCA, 11th Hour Racing, will be fitted with B&G navigation systems developed for offshore foiling race yachts.

The sailing electronics manufacturer marks its 70th anniversary in 2026. According to the company, which is a Navico Group brand, its systems have been used aboard every winner of the Whitbread Round the World Race and The Ocean Race since the latter was first held in 1973. Experience gained from offshore racing has informed the development of navigation algorithms and autopilot systems designed to respond quickly to changing conditions, including when boats are travelling at more than 30 knots.

“To race solo at the highest level on a foiling IMOCA, absolute trust in your data is fundamental,” says Clapcich. “B&G isn’t just hardware; it reads the sea state and wind shifts with me. Having technology onboard that allows me to monitor flight trim and manage the boat with total clarity is a game-changer.”

The 2026 season is a key stage in Clapcich’s preparation for the 2028 Vendée Globe, the solo, non-stop and unassisted round-the-world race. As she continues her move into single-handed offshore competition, her calendar includes a mix of established events.

Her season began with the solo 1000 Race in May. On 7 June 2026, she is due to start the Vendée Arctique from Les Sables d’Olonne, France. The Ocean Race Atlantic, her only fully crewed event of the year, will see a four-person team race from New York, US, to Lorient, France. She will then return to solo racing before ending the season with the Route du Rhum from St Malo, France, to Guadeloupe in the Caribbean.

Reliable instrumentation and accurate data are important considerations in offshore racing, particularly on fully foiling yachts.

Matt Eeles, product director for B&G, says: “B&G is incredibly proud to partner with Francesca and her team. Her track record of success and breaking records aligns perfectly with B&G’s DNA, rooted in performance, innovation and a pioneering spirit. At the heart of this relationship is a shared passion for sailing, a sport that connects people to the elements and fosters a deep respect for the natural world.”