Stage 1 of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race will see the fleet depart Portsmouth and embark on the opening 500nm test to Puerto Sherry, Spain. A tactical Solent start and English Channel passage quickly give way to the challenges of the Bay of Biscay, where shifting winds, unsettled sea states, and possible low-pressure systems demand constant vigilance. Beyond Cape Finisterre, the fleet enters warmer waters, where strong northerly “Nortada” winds or the influence of tropical storms could dominate. This mix of weather systems will shape the final approach into Spain and set the pace for the circumnavigation.