The great circus of F50 sailboats moves to Bermuda for breathtaking regattas on Saturday May 4 and Sunday May 5, 2024. Ten teams, including the in-form French, battle it out for a place in the final. This event is a major turning point in this season's quest for the title.
Competitive team strategy
As the final regattas of the season approach, every maneuver counts. The French, led by Quentin Delapierre, have made spectacular progress, climbing from eighth to fourth place in the rankings. " We've regained our level of play and our confidence "says Timothé Lapauw, the team's dynamic grinder. The Australians, led by Tom Slingsby, are looking to regain the lead after severe penalties at the last Grand Prix in New Zealand. The competition promises to be tight, with the teams keen to outdo New Zealand's Black Foils, the current championship leaders.
Special features of the Bermuda water body
Bermuda offers an exceptional setting for top-level competition. Timothé Lapauw emphasizes the beauty of the site, renowned for its ideal sailing conditions and picturesque scenery. " This is certainly one of the most beautiful stretches of water in the world "He recalls his first experience in Bermuda during the Youth America's Cup. The race course promises fast, tactical racing, a real test of the sailors' skills and the robustness of the F50s.
Impact of recent results on the competition
After the penalties that turned the standings upside down in Christchurch, the tension is palpable. Teams have adjusted their strategies to maximize every available point. The French are aiming for a place in the final to consolidate their position, with final victory as their goal. " The aim is to reach the final to consolidate points overall "says Lapauw. This weekend's competition will be decisive in qualifying for the grand final in San Francisco in July.
The Bermuda Sail Grand Prix promises to be a decisive stage in the SailGP season. With renewed ambitions, the teams will be giving their all on one of the circuit's most beautiful stretches of water.
