Thomson: Easy decision to miss Vendee Globe

Gosport sailor, Alex Thomson, has told ITV News Meridian it was "an easy decision" to take a break from elite level sailing.

The 47 year old has ruled himself out of the 2024 Vendee Globe so he can spend more time with his family.

Alex said: "My primary function should be as a father and a husband. It was a super easy decision. Racing around the world on your own - it's a game. I've only been at home on average, four or five months a year for the last 18 years, and that's not sustainable if I want to be a good dad."

The Vendee Globe takes place every four years and the solo, round the world yacht race is widely regarded as one of the toughest tests in sport.

Thomson has competed in five out of the nine contests that have been held so far, securing two podium finishes.

Despite taking a break for the 2024 competition, his goal remains to win it.

He added: "It's always been the goal. I totally believe in the sport. I definitely want to carry on and I want to put together the right group of people and then find the right person who can lead the team and then go out and win it."

Thomson insists this is not the end of his sailing career and could return for the 2028 Vendee Globe, an event which he says continues to grow in popularity.

Watch: Alex Thomson, Elite level sailor.