AUCKLAND, New Zealand — The Australian SailGP team emerged victorious in the New Zealand leg of the international sailing championship, but the triumph was tempered by a severe collision between New Zealand and French vessels that left two competitors with serious injuries during Saturday’s races.
Helmsman Tom Slingsby piloted the Australian Flying Roos to first place in Sunday’s three-boat finale, securing the win against Spain and Britain. This outcome creates a tied overall series leadership between Australia and Britain, who had previously taken the opening event in Perth.
Race organizers implemented unprecedented safety measures for Sunday’s competition, dividing the fleet into two separate groups due to forecasted strong winds. This decision followed Saturday’s historic 13-boat participation—the largest field in SailGP history—where congested course conditions potentially contributed to the high-speed impact between national teams.
The collision occurred at approximately 90 km/h (56 mph), resulting in significant damage to both vessels. New Zealand crew member Louis Sinclair, responsible for operating the winches as a grinder, sustained compound fractures to both lower limbs. Meanwhile, French strategist Manon Audinet suffered abdominal trauma after being propelled forward with such force that she shattered the steering mechanism of the French craft.
Medical teams reported successful surgical intervention on Sinclair’s right leg, expressing optimism regarding his recovery trajectory. Both teams have released statements emphasizing their full support for the injured athletes during their rehabilitation processes.
SailGP authorities have committed to conducting a comprehensive investigation into the incident in collaboration with Team New Zealand. The organization faces additional challenges as both damaged teams race against time to repair their vessels before the next championship round in Sydney, scheduled within the forthcoming fortnight.
Sunday’s races proceeded under challenging meteorological conditions, with gusty winds preceding an approaching thunderstorm. Competitors recorded peak velocities nearing 102 km/h (63 mph) in the matching 50-foot catamarans throughout the final day of competition.