Poland’s Zbigniew Gutkowski became the sixth skipper yesterday to abandon his bid to win the prestigious Vendee Globe race after electronic problems ruined his chances.

The problems hit his boat Energa in recent days of the gruelling solo unassisted race around the world which meant he did not have automatic pilot.

Already forced to quit the event is the race’s only women skipper, Samantha Davies as well as Louis Burton, Marc Guillemot, Kito de Pavant and Jeremie Beyou leaving 14 at sea competing for sailing’s ultimate prize.

After 11 days at sea, Frenchman Armel Le Cleac’h led the race yesterday as he sailed close to the equator followed by compatriot Francois Gabart who is 41.5 miles back and a third Frenchman Vincent Riou a further 4.5 miles adrift.

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