Ellen MacArthur and her 14-strong Kingfisher2 crew did not pass the start line as intended yesterday in their bid to break the round-the-world record and land the Jules Verne Trophy.

A technical problem on the mast track was discovered at first light when Kingfisher2 was just miles from the start line off of Ushant in France.

The crew noticed a problem with the mainsail track - a metal runner that goes the full length of the mast - and that must be at 100 per cent to race the boat to its full potential.

MacArthur explained: "To start a 26,000-mile race around the world without being in 100 per cent form would not be a good move.

"We made the decision just after 9am to head for calmer waters for a fuller inspection and eventual repair.

"We have done some good hard miles in the current configuration, and the conditions we've experienced since we left Lorient have been difficult even if nothing out of the ordinary. Further investigation will no doubt provide the answer."

The plan now is to sail under headsail towards the shelter of Plymouth, where the shore team will meet the giant catamaran and work on getting the team back to sea as soon as possible.

The choice of Plymouth will assist an easier possible departure later in the week with the strong northerly winds forecast to continue - straight in the direction of the start line.

Whilst of course disappointed, MacArthur, the crew and the shore team are already fully focused on the solution and a restart as soon as possible.

"Everyone has actually taken this setback well, considering" added MacArthur.

"We are already very much on to the detail of resolving the problem and getting on with the job."

Meeno Schrader - the weather router - has confirmed that this weather window may well stay open until the weekend.