Ze Caribbean Race 2026 delivers classic Caribbean downwind conditions

| Melanie Lafenetre, Ze Race

Ze Caribbean Race once again lived up to its reputation as one of the toughest and most scenic downwind races on the calendar. The 15th edition, held on January 31, 2026, sent paddlers, foilers and ocean athletes on a demanding 35-kilometre downwind run from Pointe des Châteaux to Le Gosier along Guadeloupe’s east coast.

SUP Champ and Code Foil Team Rider Melanie Lafenetre enjoying her glides | 📸 via Ze Race

Strong trade winds and open-ocean swell created near-perfect downwind conditions, turning the race into a true test of ocean reading, endurance and tactical decision-making. With athletes from multiple disciplines sharing the same stretch of water, the event once again showcased the unique, inclusive spirit that has made Ze Race a Caribbean classic.

A fast and physical race from start to finish

From the start, the field was quickly stretched out as the leaders connected long glides offshore. While the early kilometres rewarded aggressive downwind surfing, the final approach toward Gosier demanded patience and fitness as the ocean energy softened closer to shore.

The 2026 edition confirmed a growing trend: elite SUP paddlers increasingly sharing the stage with foil riders and other paddle craft, reflecting the evolving landscape of downwind racing.

Stand Up Paddle

Ladies

  1. Astrid de Préville – 4:38:41
  2. Carole Gaultier – +11:43

Men

  1. Simon Andermann – 3:24:35
  2. Tanguy Cornet – +18:04
  3. Stéphane Guellerm – +33:05

Stand Up Paddle Foil

Ladies

  1. Naomi Eychenne – 1:41:37
  2. Mélanie Lafenetre – +01:21
  3. Julie Tiouitou – +35:03
  4. Blancheflore Boria – +01:24:41

Men

  1. Kai Thompson – 1:11:26
  2. Axel Tham – +05:42
  3. Thomas Goyard – +05:43
  4. Tom Constant – +08:10
  5. Melvyn Mouret – +08:20
  6. Guido Nonnat – +09:40
  7. Hugo Coud-Cher – +06:45
  8. Raphaël Payen – +09:29
  9. Simon Galamez – +21:39
  10. François Prévost – +25:02
  11. Antonin France – +25:34
  12. Alexis Grat – +29:51
  13. Nathan Amizet – +31:27
  14. Nell Couprie – +01:07:01

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