The only German participant in the Volvo Ocean Race is parting ways with the Swedish team "by mutual agreement", according to the official announcement. Allegedly, personal reasons were the decisive factor in Kolb's decision.
"I think it's the best thing for me and my family," Kolb is quoted as saying. He told YACHT: "I had imagined it differently. It's more stressful for my wife and children than I thought, travelling to the ports of call after me."
He did not want to comment on the fact that safety concerns were actually the reason for his withdrawal. Nevertheless, it is surprising that a sailing professional like Kolb, who won the last race on the "illbruck" and is used to a life characterised by travelling, should suddenly make such a decision.
It is no secret that some of the new boats have considerable problems with the tilting keel technology. This fact, combined with the further course of the stage, may explain the timing of Kolb's decision. Because from 2 January, the second leg will begin, which will take them down to the 50th parallel. The conditions there will be much tougher than on the first leg, wind speeds of 50 knots are not uncommon and damage to the boats is foreseeable.
Lars Bolle
Chief Editor Digital
