When high-level sport reflects a sustainable economic model
For over 20 years, GROUPE IDEC has proudly represented itself across the oceans through IDEC SPORT. World records, legendary victories, collective achievements: the IDEC SPORT maxi trimaran has made its mark on the history of ocean racing and still holds the Jules Verne Trophy to this day.
In 2025, a new chapter begins with THE FAMOUS PROJECT led by Alexia BARRIER: a visionary challenge undertaken by an all-female, international crew, aiming to sail around the world non-stop. An extraordinary sporting adventure and an unprecedented feat, while also serving as a powerful symbol of diversity, inclusion, and the energy transition.
More than 20 years of commitment and performance
The history of IDEC SPORT is one of constant dedication to the greatest sporting challenges. With its iconic trimaran and results that have marked the history of sailing, GROUPE IDEC has always combined performance with responsibility.
This new commitment to THE FAMOUS PROJECT continues this legacy: a human and collective challenge that resonates with the major environmental and societal issues that the Group addresses in its business activities..
THE FAMOUS PROJECT: a collective challenge for women
Led by Alexia BARRIER, THE FAMOUS PROJECT is a unique adventure. The all-female, international crew of The Famous Project CIC plans to attempt the Jules Verne Trophy between December 2025 and March 2026, depending on favorable weather windows. The current record, set by Francis JOYON and his crew in 2017 on the same boat IDEC SPORT, stands at 40 days, 23 hours, and 30 minutes.
Beyond the record, this project sends a powerful message: giving women their rightful place in a field traditionally dominated by men. This approach aligns perfectly with GROUPE IDEC’s CSR policy and its ambition to foster a more inclusive future.
Equal opportunities, at sea and in the workplace
By joining THE FAMOUS PROJECT, GROUPE IDEC confirms its commitment to promoting gender diversity, both in sport and in the professional world.
Committed to gender equality for many years, the Group facilitates women’s access to all professions, including the most technical and strategic roles. Supporting this women-led challenge is therefore a direct extension of its tangible commitment to equality and openness.
Shared values: passion, teamwork, and innovation
The connection between sport and business is clear: passion, commitment, courage, and teamwork. These values, guiding IDEC SPORT sailors around the world, are also shared by IDEC GROUP employees, who design and deliver ambitious projects every day. At the heart of this synergy lies a shared vision of performance: combining economic, social, and environmental factors to build a sustainable future.
A shared ambition for energy transition
Alexia BARRIER’s challenge relies solely on the power of the wind. GROUPE IDEC’s challenge is to reinvent real estate to make it more virtuous.
Through low-carbon projects, integration of renewable energy, and smart land-use planning, the Group works daily toward a more sustainable future. The convergence is clear: at sea and on land, the same course is set toward responsibility and innovation.
Innovation as a lever for commitment
Through its IDEC INVEST Innovation fund, the Group supports over 25 startups committed to the energy transition.
THE FAMOUS PROJECT is a concrete illustration of this commitment: HELIUP solar panels will be installed on the mast of the IDEC SPORT trimaran, symbolizing this shared desire to reduce the environmental footprint.
An international vision, a guarantee of success
Alexia BARRIER has assembled an international and multicultural team for THE FAMOUS PROJECT. Six female sailors have been selected: Dee CAFFARI and Deborah BLAIR from the UK, Annemieke BES from the Netherlands, Rebecca GMUER from Switzerland and New Zealand, Tamara ECHEGOYEN from Spain, and Molly LAPOINTE from the US.
This international approach mirrors GROUPE IDEC’s own vision and development across Europe (Spain, Italy, Portugal, Sweden, Switzerland) and Asia, combining French expertise with the local cultural nuances of each country in which it operates.
About the GROUPE IDEC and IDEC SPORT
Founded 25 years ago, GROUPE IDEC is a major player in real estate in France and internationally. As a developer, investor, designer, and builder, it covers the entire value chain, with proven expertise in low-carbon energy integration and energy transition.
With IDEC SPORT, sport is part of its DNA: motor racing, team sports, and, of course, ocean racing. Since 2002, the team has built a unique track record with world records and historic victories.
GROUPE IDEC in figures
- €470 million in revenue in 2024
- 600 employees in France, 1,500 worldwide
- 3.5 million m² certified
- More than 1,000 hectares managed in France and internationally
- €483 million in real estate assets
- 6 subsidiaries in Europe and Asia
- 700,000 m² built per year
- More than 20 parks under development in France and internationally