$2 million at stake as Roos try to secure seat in Grand Final

Tom Slingsby described Day 1 in Abu Dhabi as “extremely stressful” for the Bonds Flying Roos as they confronted challenging light-air conditions, incurred costly penalties, and dealt with software issues. Despite these setbacks, the team made commendable late-race recoveries.

Finishing the day in 11th place in the races, the Flying Roos cling to third overall on the leaderboard, ahead of Spain, keeping alive their hopes for a record fourth SailGP title.

Day one began with an unexpected twist; all four leading teams, including Australia, Emirates GBR, New Zealand, and Spain, scrambled at the back of the fleet due to low-wind conditions. Four fleet races were executed with teams operating under low-speed survival mode. A fierce competition unfolded between Los Gallos and the Bonds Flying Roos, with each team incurring penalties for early starting in fleet race two.

Further complications arose as the Australians received another penalty in race three, attributed to software malfunctions. Nonetheless, Slingsby showcased his adeptness by recovering from 12th to 8th in the closing moments of the race.

“I don’t know if other teams encountered the same difficulties we faced, but our starting software kept indicating we were racing prematurely, which resulted in some significant penalties today. It was frustrating, yet I observed other teams receiving penalties as well,” Slingsby reflected.

In their best performance during the fourth fleet race, the Australians effectively utilised clean air and strategic decision-making, culminating in a fifth-place finish. Overall, they recorded placements of 10th, 10th, 8th, and 5th, concluding Day 1 in 10th for the event but maintaining third position in the overarching season standings, a mere four points clear of defending champion Spain.

“It’s extremely stressful. Our focus now shifts from merely winning the event to maintaining an edge over Spain. The competitive environment becomes tricky; one gust of wind or inadvertent helicopter proximity can lead to rapid consequences. Despite the pressure, I believe we’re in a better position than we were at the beginning of the day,” said Slingsby.

The Bonds Flying Roos are set for crucial races tomorrow in Super Sunday, backed by their Title Partner Bonds and key supporting partners, including monday.com and Blueberry.

Slingsby concluded, “Our strategy involves keeping Spain behind us while simultaneously pushing for speed. Our primary goal is managing the Spanish team, and should we qualify for the finals, a complete reset is essential as we prepare to race for the $2 million winner-takes-all prize.”

The two qualifying fleet races and the Grand Final are scheduled to commence in Abu Dhabi from 9:00 pm to 10:30 pm AEDT on 30 November. Australian fans can catch all the action live on Fox Sports and Kayo Sports.