At just 19 years old, Nathan Mesiano, a young sailor from the French Riviera who became disabled following a serious accident, is preparing to take on an extraordinary challenge: competing in the Mini Transat 2027 before sailing solo across the Atlantic.
This is the story of a young Mediterranean sailor determined to cross the Atlantic alone. Nathan Mesiano is setting his sights on a rare and demanding challenge. At only 19, he aims to be on the starting line of the Mini Transat 2027 — a solo, unassisted transatlantic race. For him, this project has become a life path. It is also an act of reconstruction after an accident that profoundly altered his teenage years.
Today, Nathan moves forward with strong conviction and growing support from numerous partners, including the Century 21 Lafage Group, as well as athletes and artists. A charity auction will be held on December 9 at the Casino of Beaulieu-sur-Mer to help finance his boat.
A Project Born from an Early Dream and Unshaken Determination
Nathan Mesiano discovered sailing at a young age. His first defining moment came in 2012.
“I discovered sailing while watching the Vendée Globe in 2012, and I said to myself: this is what I want to do. I joined a sailing club, La Volée sur Mer, and started sailing. At first, it was purely recreational, no competition. But I’m naturally very competitive, so I quickly moved into racing — and it’s never left me since.”
Since then, he sails whenever he can. He has also learned to compete alongside able-bodied sailors without putting his disability at the forefront.
“I sail with able-bodied sailors. Maybe during the race I’ll be with other sailors with disabilities, but for now I don’t know any. I’ll probably be the only disabled sailor at the start — and maybe even the youngest. That’s also the goal of this race: to break down barriers, to encourage more people with disabilities to dare to take on challenges like this. And not only people with disabilities — anyone, really. To dare to chase their dreams.”
His goal for 2027 is clear: to qualify, equip himself properly, and take the start of the Mini Transat. The boat he is preparing already carries a name full of history: Satanas. A name the young sailor, who lost part of his right arm, wants to keep as a personal emblem.
Nathan Mesiano on his blue and white boat, with orange, yellow and green accents at the stern, and the number 198 displayed prominently at the bow.
The next two years will be dedicated entirely to preparation for this passionate and eager learner.
“When it comes to modifications, I’ll first sail to see what I actually need. I don’t know yet if I’ll need additional adaptations. If necessary, I’ll add some, then maybe remove them. We’ll see over time — that’s why we have two full years of preparation.”
The Mini Transat: A Gateway to Offshore Racing
The Mini Transat is a key milestone for sailors dreaming of offshore racing, and Nathan speaks about it with clarity.
“It’s a necessary step because today it’s the most affordable offshore race. Funding is obviously crucial in sailing. You sail the old-fashioned way, you learn a lot from this race. The boats are very small, you’re constantly tossed around, you don’t sleep much. It’s really the gateway… and it’s also a legendary race.”
The first stage of his qualification will take place in 2026, covering 8,000 nautical miles, starting in the Alpes-Maritimes region, passing through Barcelona, and returning via Italy. In short, the young skippers will complete a major loop across the Mediterranean.
A Journey of Recovery, a Message of Hope, and Growing Support
Nathan’s story is also one of profound recovery. At 15, he attempted suicide and was struck by a train at Nice railway station. Sailing became his anchor.
“Honestly, without sailing, I wouldn’t be here today. When I woke up, the very first thing I said to my mother was: ‘Mom, sailing is over.’ She replied: ‘No, it will never be over.’”
His physical rehabilitation was remarkably fast.
“I was back sailing after three months. Five months after the accident, I competed in the French Championships.”
Today, he carries a broader message, addressed to everyone:
“To anyone who doubts, to anyone who feels boxed in… Just go for it. Life is short, and it’s beautiful. When you really want to do something, you can do it. Everything is possible.”
His determination deeply moved Benjamin Mondou, President of the Century 21 Lafage Group, who initiated the charity auction. Their meeting was decisive.
“I discovered Nathan on social media, on Instagram, very early one morning. He was just 18 — he could be my son. He’s radiant, deeply moving. His story is incredible. What touches me most are his values: he’s determined, committed, and he truly believes in his project.”
Faced with this story, Mondou decided to mobilize his network to help fund the project.
“I made a few phone calls. Fifteen days later, people were saying: ‘Benjamin, what do you want? When? How?’ And just like that, it was done.”
A Charity Auction to Make the Dream Possible
The charity auction on December 9 will help finance the purchase of the boat, already reserved thanks to initial support. Artists and several high-profile athletes are taking part, with some rare items among the lots — including the climber’s jersey of Tadej Pogačar and the jersey of OGC Nice captain Dante.
The goal is clear.
“We need to raise at least €35,000 — that’s what it will take. We hope to exceed that amount. Everyone really stepped up.”
The auction will be accessible both in person and by phone. An online fundraising page (available via the provided link) has already been launched and will remain active to continue supporting the project.
Benjamin Mondou also hopes to engage additional partners.
“My role will be to knock on every door — the region, the department — and to make Nathan known on a national level.”
For him, this story goes beyond sport.
“What he radiates, his energy, the way he lives with his disability… It’s a truly powerful and inspiring message.”
Nathan continues to chart his course — with caution, discipline and deep motivation. He moves steadily toward his dream, one ocean at a time.
Nathan Mesiano surrounded by supporters of his Mini Transat 2027 project. Framed works include jerseys from OGC Nice football club and the Visma–Lease a Bike cycling team.
