Demonstrating a commitment to stability and team cohesion, the French squad has retained its core crew for the 2025 season, successfully fending off transfer requests from rival teams. This strategic decision underscores their focus on leveraging established teamwork and experience as they rejoin the high-octane competition.
The introduction of their newly constructed F50 catamaran is anticipated to significantly bolster the team’s performance. This state-of-the-art vessel incorporates the latest technological advancements, including the new T-Foils set to debut across all teams’ boats during the Auckland event. These T-Foils are engineered to enhance speed and control, potentially reshaping race dynamics and offering teams new tactical opportunities.
The Auckland event itself marks a milestone in SailGP history, featuring a record 12 teams on the starting line. New entrants from Brazil and Italy add fresh vigor to the competition, elevating the stakes for all participants. For the French team, this event is particularly pivotal as they aim to swiftly establish momentum in the season following their absence in Dubai.
As the countdown to the Auckland event continues, anticipation builds around the return of the France SailGP Team. With a reinforced lineup, a cutting-edge vessel, and a determination to make a strong impact, the French team is set to contribute significantly to what promises to be an exhilarating chapter in the SailGP series.
The team
As one of SailGP’s six original teams, the France SailGP Team, led by driver Quentin Delapierre, has built a formidable reputation since he took the helm in Season 2 with a standout crew. Known as Les Bleus, the team excels in delivering exceptional race starts and thrives in wild, windy conditions. They currently hold the SailGP speed record, clocking an impressive 99.94 km/h in Saint-Tropez during Season 4. Representing France’s rich racing heritage while embracing innovation and teamwork, the team proudly embodies “le bien-vivre” and a solutions-focused mindset.
The team’s lineup for the 2025 season includes:
- Quentin Delapierre – Driver: Delapierre took over as the team’s driver during Season 2, replacing former skipper Billy Besson. He began his sailing career in the Gulf of Morbihan and has experience in Olympic sailing, having competed in the Nacra 17 event at the 2020 Summer Olympics.
- Kevin Peponnet – Wing Trimmer: Peponnet plays a crucial role in controlling the wing sail, adjusting it to optimize speed and performance.
- Jason Saunders – Flight Controller: Saunders is responsible for maintaining the boat’s stability and flight height above the water.
- Matthieu Vandame – Grinder: A core member of the French team, Vandame has been with the crew since Season 2. He began sailing at 11 years old at the legendary Cataschool in the Gulf of Morbihan, where he trained alongside some of France’s top multihull sailors.
- Timothé Lapauw – Grinder: Despite being the youngest member of the team, Lapauw has showcased significant experience and strong on-water results since Season 1.
- Olivier Herlédant – Grinder: Doined the France SailGP Team in Season 2, alongside fellow grinders Timothé Lapauw and Matthieu Vandame. He is a Doctor of Fluid Dynamics – and has a second engineering degree in naval hydrodynamics!
- Manon Audinet – Stratigest: Joined the France SailGP Team in May 2022 for the opening of Season 3 in Bermuda. Occupying the position of strategist, Audinet was on board for France’s first-ever SailGP victory in Cadiz in September 2022.
