Let’s take a closer look at the full crew rosters and the notable changes shaping the opening event.
Familiar Names, Fresh Dynamics
The established dominance of league leaders Australia and New Zealand has been shaken up by key crew transfers. New Zealand’s Andy Maloney has moved to Mubadala Brazil, while Australia’s Kyle Langford now helms the wing trimmer role for Red Bull Italy. Another shake-up comes from Emirates GBR, where Dylan Fletcher takes over as driver following Giles Scott’s move to the Canadian team. Meanwhile, Switzerland has opted for a clean slate, debuting an almost entirely refreshed starting line-up.
Team Roster Highlights
Australia (AUS 2)
Defending champions Australia remain a formidable force with driver Tom Slingsby at the helm. Slingsby will be joined by wing trimmer Chris Draper, flight controller Jason Waterhouse, grinders Kinley Fowler and Sam Newton, and strategist Tash Bryant, with Chris Nicholson coaching the team.
Mubadala Brazil
Led by Olympic gold medallist Martine Grael, Brazil boasts a blend of youth and experience. New flight controller Andy Maloney joins the squad alongside grinders Marco Grael and Mateus Isaac, with Leigh McMillan trimming the wing. Strategist Richard Mason and coach Emmett Lazich complete the crew.
Canada
Canada enters the 2025 season with a major coup: double Olympic gold medallist Giles Scott as driver. The team is packed with talent, including wing trimmer Paul Campbell-James, flight controller Billy Gooderham, and grinders Tom Ramshaw, Jareese Finch, Tim Hornsby, and Cooper Dressler. Strategist Annie Haeger and coach Joe Glanfield round out the line-up.
Emirates GBR (GBR 1)
With Fletcher stepping into the driver’s role, Emirates GBR aims to build on its strong foundation. Wing trimmer Iain Jensen, flight controller Luke Parkinson, and grinders Nick Hutton and Neil Hunter form a solid core, while strategist Hannah Mills adds her Olympic pedigree to the team.
Red Bull Italy
Ruggero Tita, fresh from Olympic triumph, takes the wheel for Red Bull Italy. The addition of Kyle Langford as wing trimmer and backup driver Jimmy Spithill signals serious intent. The squad includes flight controller Andrea Tesei and grinders Enrico Voltolini and Alex Sinclair, with Philippe Presti coaching the team.
New Zealand (NZL 2)
New Zealand retains its championship-winning core, led by Peter Burling and Blair Tuke, with Leo Takahashi as flight controller. Grinders Marcus Hansen, Louis Sinclair, and Sam Meech provide power, while strategist Liv Mackay and coach David Slyfield continue to refine the team’s approach.
Switzerland
After a challenging 2024 season, Switzerland enters Dubai with a nearly brand-new line-up. Sebastien Schneiter takes the helm with Arnaud Psarofaghis trimming the wing and Bryan Mettraux managing flight control. Grinders Matt Gotrel and Stewart Dodson are joined by strategist Maud Jayet under the guidance of coach Javi Torres.
United States
The United States hopes for a strong start with driver Taylor Canfield leading the charge. The team features wing trimmer Jeremy Wilmot, flight controller Hans Henken, and grinders Anna Weis, Peter Kinney, and Mac Agnese, alongside strategist Mike Buckley.
Absent But Not Forgotten: France
France will miss the Dubai event as it awaits delivery of its new F50. The team will make its season debut in Auckland in January 2025.
Action-Packed Weekend
Racing in Dubai kicks off this weekend on the pristine waters of Mina Rashid, promising thrilling battles and spectacular speed as SailGP’s state-of-the-art F50 catamarans push the limits of performance. Fans can look forward to seeing how these new rosters gel under pressure in the high-stakes opener.
Boating New Zealand will have full coverage – make us your one-stop-shop for all the SailGP action you need!
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