Emirates GBR Claims Leadership in SailGP
In a thrilling showcase of skill and teamwork, Emirates GBR has vaulted to the top position in the overall standings of the Rolex SailGP following an impressive victory in the picturesque Cádiz Bay this past weekend. The dynamic races not only highlighted the team's strength but also set the stage for an exciting finale next month.
Dylan Fletcher, piloting for Emirates GBR, expressed excitement about the victory, stating, "It was an incredible weekend for the team. We had to fight for this win, battling hard throughout the fleet and continuing to push ourselves. It was a beautiful contest with the Black Foils, who were sailing exceptionally well, but we managed to take charge." This triumph marks a crucial milestone as Fletcher’s team prepares for the Grand Final.
During the two-day regatta, every point was hard-won, with competitors displaying fierce determination. The final race was particularly action-packed, showcasing a slingshot maneuver by the British team that forced their rivals, the New Zealand crew, to retreat, allowing Emirates GBR to propel ahead. Having secured their win, the team now leads the season standings with a total of 85 points, nine points clear of Spain, who occupy the fourth position.
Hannah Mills, strategist for Emirates GBR, also shared her thoughts: "This victory comes at a pivotal moment as we head into Abu Dhabi. The standings shifted dramatically over the weekend, which is fantastic for us as we approach the Grand Final. We are thrilled with how these two challenging days unfolded. The racing was incredibly physical, and the conditions made it tricky for our boat to fly smoothly."
The event saw 12 international teams compete against the backdrop of Cádiz, equipped for wind speeds of 11 to 20 km/h, utilizing their 24-meter versatile wingsails, T-foils, and rudders specifically designed for light-air conditions. The Spanish SailGP Team captivated the audience by clinching the fifth fleet race, a high point for the defending champions who finished fifth overall for the weekend. Diego Botín, the Spanish pilot, commented, "Sailing here in front of this crowd is simply amazing. Seeing the red sea and hearing supporters cheer for us all day is an unparalleled experience. We are grateful for the support and strive to perform well for them."
As anticipation builds for the ultimate showdown at the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Sail Grand Prix, set for November 29 and 30, 2025, both fans and teams prepare with excitement. The SailGP promises to deliver thrilling racing experiences, emphasizing national pride and camaraderie among competitors, skilled at maneuvering identical 50-foot foiling catamarans at speeds exceeding 100 km/h. With a total prize purse of $12 million up for grabs, the stakes are incredibly high.
This year’s season has showcased exceptional talent in the sport, and the upcoming Grand Final is expected to be a spectacular climax to this thrilling season.
For more information, visit
SailGP.com/AbuDhabi.