Record finish for Vendée Globe

A FRENCH sailor has become the youngest ever winner of the Vendée Globe round-the-world sailing race, finishing in record time.

François Gabart, 29, crossed the finish line at Les Sables d'Olonne yesterday afternoon after spending 78 days, 2 hours and 16 minutes at sea.

He completed the race six days faster than the previous record set by Michel Desjoyeaux in 2009.

Thousands of spectators lined the coast to welcome Gabart back. The Vendée Globe takes place every four years and is considered the world's ultimate solo sailing race.