French Sailor Charlie Dalin Wins Vendée Globe While Undergoing Cancer Treatment

French sailor Charlie Dalin won the 2024-25 Vendée Globe solo round-the-world race in record time while undergoing immunotherapy treatment for a gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) diagnosed in late 2023. Despite the significant health challenges, including surgery and cancer recurrence, Dalin managed to maintain a strict medical protocol at sea and kept his illness secret during the race to fully enjoy his victory. He revealed his condition and treatment in his autobiography "La Force du Destin," emphasizing the psychological and physical challenges he faced and how continuing to sail helped him focus beyond his illness. Dalin described the experience as a "double victory," both in the race and over his disease, noting that the cancer reshaped his perspective on life and competition. His team, MerConcept, and sponsor Macif have continued to support him as he aims to recover strength and potentially return to racing despite missing the 2028 Vendée Globe. Dalin's story highlights remarkable resilience and determination in the face of serious illness while achieving one of sailing's greatest feats.