SailGP has announced significant advancements in its technological capabilities, including the launch of new rudders and plans for an automated foil-protection software designed for high-speed, high-load manoeuvres. These innovations will be showcased at this weekend’s ROCKWOOL France Sail Grand Prix in Saint-Tropez.
After an extensive testing cycle that began in January 2024, the new rudders will be implemented across all 12 national teams. Featuring a thinner design, longer cord length, and improved elevators, these rudders are aimed at enhancing control during high-speed sailing and improving performance at lower speeds.
The upgraded high-speed rudders will also significantly increase the threshold for cavitation, reducing the risk of breakage and improving handling. Cavitation will now initiate at speeds above 106 km/h (66 mph), a notable improvement from the previous threshold of 83 km/h (51 mph).
SailGP CEO Sir Russell Coutts stated, “In a championship where teams are consistently pushing the boundaries, every improvement must balance performance with safety and precision. These latest innovations are part of SailGP’s broader vision to redefine sailing through technological excellence, athletic drama, speed, and performance at the highest levels.”
Additionally, a newly developed software will enhance crew safety by managing extreme loads experienced during high-speed manoeuvres. This system will automatically adjust the daggerboard’s angle to mitigate the risk of overloading the boat in critical conditions.
Coutts added, “Once fully operational, the new software will be a meaningful step toward safeguarding the fleet in the most demanding scenarios. While nothing replaces expert handling, this change will mitigate some risk of overloading the boat, providing an extra layer of protection for crews and equipment.”
SailGP’s in-house technology team, comprising over 100 designers, engineers, and specialists, has been integral to these advancements. The recent opening of SailGP Technologies in Southampton, UK, a US $10 million facility, underscores the league’s commitment to ongoing design and development of its racing fleet.
Today’s announcement comes after successful repairs to the U.S. SailGP Team and Mubadala Brazil, both of which experienced significant damage at the previous event in Sassnitz. Both teams’ F50s have been dispatched from SailGP Technologies following extensive refits and upgrades, ensuring they are ready for competition in Saint-Tropez.
The ROCKWOOL France Sail Grand Prix will commence this weekend, featuring live racing on Friday, September 12, and Saturday, September 13. Following this event, SailGP will make its debut on Lake Geneva with the Rolex Switzerland Sail Grand Prix on September 20-21, 2025.
Follow the action at Sailgp.com/Watch for live coverage and updates.
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