Start of the 2012 Vendée Globe: Sunday 21st October at 13h02 Shortly before the end of the prize-giving ceremony, when Philippe de Villiers congratulated Michel Desjoyeaux, the winner of the 2008-2009 edition, the President of the SEM Vendée, the race organizer, officially revealed the date of the next Vendée Globe: 21st October 2012 at 13h02. A seventh Vendée Globe, which 29 competitors have already declared their intention to compete in.

What they said:

- Michel Desjoyeaux: From the outset, I couldn't wait to get going. I don't know what the future will be like, but tonight, I can't wait to celebrate with everyone here in Vendée.
- Armel Le Cléac'h: Finishing just after Michel Desjoyeaux was something I could not have hoped for, but was really the icing on the cake!

- Samantha Davies (GBR): The race was incredible, but I also keep remembering the three weeks spent here before the start. I'd like to thank my whole team, the Roxy boys, who did so well preparing this project.

- Dee Caffari (GBR): This Vendée Globe was just great for me. The three months just went by.

Unai Basurko (SP) : I'd like to say well done to all those thousands of supporters, who make sailing what it is in France.

- Bernard Stamm (SUI): I'm someone you might call stubborn, so you'll be seeing me again in 2012.

- Dominique Wavre (SUI): Along with Bernard Stamm, we tried to carry out a Swiss invasion of New Zealand...., what I will remember from this Vendée is the amazing solidarity associated with this race.

- Mike Golding (GBR): The problems that I encountered in this race all fell into perspective, when Yann Eliès was in distress. I hope to return in 2012.

- Derek Hatfield (CAN): I was determined to complete the race, but, unfortunately.... I'd like to thank everyone in Canada for their support, as they enabled me to line up for the start.

- Jonny Malbon (GBR): I was fairly stressed at the start and the race was very tough. The Vendée Globe is a really difficult race.

- Norbert Sedlacek (AUT): The preparation for this Vendée Globe will have represented 8 years of my life. Thanks to everyone in Vendée.

- Rich Wilson (USA): I agree with Thomas Jefferson, who said that "everyone has two countries, their own and France." I shall always remember this Vendée Globe here with you.

- Steve White (GBR): This race is the finest test of human endurance.

- Brian Thompson (GBR): I experienced some incredible moments, which are really impossible to describe, during this Vendée Globe.

- Kito de Pavant: It all ended much too soon for me, so I hope to be back again in three and a half years' time.

- Yannick Bestaven: I'm just overawed to be her tonight in front of such a large crowd.

- Jérémie Beyou: The Vendée Globe was really a special moment in my life.

- Yann Eliès: I still remain just as determined to take part in the next Vendée Globe.

- Sébastien Josse: This race teaches you how important it is to manage and look after your boat.

- Jean-Pierre Dick: I'm very privileged to do this job. I really enjoyed myself at sea. I'll be here in 2012.

- Jean Le Cam: I'd like to thank everyone, as without you, we wouldn't be here. Sorry if I made you worry a bit!

- Roland Jourdain: I really hope to set out again in 4 years time, even if it must be nice to stay ashore drinking pints when the others start the race.

- Raphael Dinelli: I managed to finish the race and achieve my sporting and eco-friendly goals.

- Vincent Riou: I try not to think too much about rescuing Jean Le Cam, even if it was a highly charged emotional moment.

- Marc Guillemot: Thanks to Yann Eliès, my race became something else.

- Jean-Baptiste Dejeanty: in spite of being forced to retire, this Vendée remains the greatest sailing of my life.