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The SailGP 2026 was turned upside down on the very first day in Auckland. A high-speed collision between the Black Foils and DS Team France led to the withdrawal of both teams.
A high-speed collision in Waitemat? harbor
The accident occurred at the start of the third round of the ITM New Zealand Grand Prix, held on February 14, 2026 in Auckland's Waitemat? harbor. Thirteen teams were entered, a first in the history of SailGP, on one of the tightest stretches of water on the calendar.
According to initial reports, the New Zealand F50 lost control shortly after the start and then veered sharply towards the French boat, which was unable to avoid contact. It all happened in a matter of seconds. The wing of the Black Foils catamaran collapsed on impact, while the bow of the French F50 slammed into the New Zealand hull.
Two injured hospitalized
Two sailors were taken to hospital in stable condition. All other crew members were uninjured. The circuit's safety procedures were activated immediately, with rapid intervention by medical teams and assistance RIBs. The partial dislocation of the New Zealand platform suggests significant structural damage.
DS Team France driver Quentin Delapierre said:
"I think both teams are doing pretty well. My thoughts are with the New Zealand team and my teammates; it's been a tough time for everyone in both teams. "
He added:
"Regarding the incident itself, I can't say anything. It all happened so quickly; it's still very confused in my head and I haven't reviewed the footage or spoken to the referees. "
An investigation is underway to determine the exact circumstances of the loss of control and any possible responsibilities.
A narrow stretch of water with marked site effects
The port of Waitemat? is notorious for its trapping site effects. BONDS Flying Roos pilot Tom Slingsby summed it up:
"The course was very technical. The wind was blowing in that direction, which left very little space, so we knew it was going to be a tight race. As we approached the first buoy, we were swept by strong gusts of wind, then the wind died down, and it was difficult to anticipate its direction. "
In these unstable conditions, management of the wing controllers, foil rake and pitch settings becomes crucial. Northstar SailGP reported the breakage of a port aileron controller, leading to retirement.
Tight rankings and a season already in turmoil
Before the break, France and Australia each had 17 points after two rounds. Spain was in third place with 12 points. The Black Foils had made a solid start, finishing third in the first race and winning the second.
It was another mixed day for Emirates GBR, who finished 11th in the first heat before bouncing back with a second-place finish.
The two teams involved in the collision have withdrawn for the remainder of the leg, scheduled for Sunday February 15, 2026 at 11:30 local time. Operations to recover and assess the F50s are underway.
