Vendee globe.org: Where are you in your search for a sponsor?

Yann Eliès: I have two interesting leads. The first is in a very early stage, the second a little more advanced. The latter would be a total newcomer to sailing sponsorship – a company that has about one hundred distributors in France but needs a guarantee before they get involved. I met this potential sponsor at a conference where I was sharing my experience with some of the top managers of the company about the last Vendée Globe and talking about the sailing profession. My audience was very receptive to the subject of sailing and understands the sport and its values. They are convinced that the Vendée Globe could have a very strong internal impact on their company, and that this type of project encourages a feeling of group identity and of participating in an extraordinary adventure.

Vendeeglobe.org: Why is it proving so difficult to complete your budget?

Yann Eliès : It is really all to do with the circumstances. A project like mine is really in the running when it has started at least three years beforehand. But with today’s recession company managers just don’t have that kind of visibility. And within such a tense economic context budgets are being diverted from any communication initiatives that are considered a greater risk, to opt for safer options such as football. However in my case I can guarantee media coverage, and not just with the event itself, but with a real podium position. On a sporting level I belong to the generation of skippers that can actually win the Vendée Globe. I will have to play it very carefully so I don’t get caught up in technological issues. The fact is I don’t actually have any more time so I will do what I can with the boat, and be careful not to add any weight, giving myself as much margin as possible to finish the race.

Vendeeglobe.org: What about the boat?

Yann Eliès: As time is passing the list of possibilities has gotten smaller. I had a number of boats in mind but today there are just two options left that would be suitable for my project. The one I am most keen on is in Barcelona.

Vendeeglobe.org : Do you not feel apprehensive about doing the race again after your ordeal in 2008?

Yann Eliès: I had some doubts for a few hours on arrival in hospital having stepped off the Australian navy frigate. But this job is my life and my passion. Now I want to finish what I started four years ago. For me it is an unfinished story. Until I have done this solo round the world race; until I have sailed back into Sable d’Olonne, something will always be missing.