The Marc Lombard-desgined trimaran Orange Project skippered by Stève Ravussin hit a container earlier today causing damage to the central hull.

The incident happened while competing in the Route du Rhum at 1000 this morning 140 miles north-west of Azores while sailing at 20kts under full sail.

Early inspection indicates that the damage from the impact is fairly high up and as far as Ravussin can see there is currently no water ingress. However, there are indications that the rudder stock has been damaged and Ravussin’s technical team is currently en-route to carry out repairs.