In a landmark move for professional sailing, the Red Bull Italy SailGP Team has been acquired by a new ownership group led by Assia Grazioli-Venier, an Italian entrepreneur and founder of Muse Capital. It marks the first time in SailGP history that a team is majority-owned and governed by a female-led consortium.
Grazioli-Venier’s investment group includes an eclectic mix of global influencers and sports advocates, including Hollywood actor Anne Hathaway, fashion executive Gian Luca Passi de Preposulo, and none other than Jimmy Spithill—the decorated America’s Cup skipper who will continue at the helm of the team as CEO and co-owner.
The acquisition, confirmed this week via social media and supported by SailGP, adds an entirely new dimension to the fast-evolving global racing circuit. With a focus on inclusion, innovation, and performance, the Red Bull Italy SailGP Team’s new structure may signal a broader transformation in how sailing teams are structured and supported—particularly in a sport long dominated by traditional ownership models.
A blend of sport and strategy
Spithill’s continued involvement brings consistency to the campaign, especially on the water, while Grazioli-Venier and her group are expected to bring a fresh commercial perspective. Known for her work across tech, media, and venture capital, Grazioli-Venier has carved out a reputation for identifying untapped potential in sports and entertainment.
In her announcement, she called the acquisition “a dream realised,” noting that the team intends to operate at the intersection of performance and purpose.
“Our goal is to build a team that reflects the future of sport—competitive, inclusive, and global,” said Grazioli-Venier. “Sailing has a deep cultural heritage, but it’s time for new ideas and fresh energy.”
Spithill’s legacy and future
For Kiwi readers, Jimmy Spithill’s name needs no introduction. As a two-time America’s Cup winner and one of the sport’s most fearless helmsmen, Spithill is known for his aggressive tactics and mental tenacity. In recent years, he’s become a fixture in SailGP, not only as a driver but as a thought leader in the development of the league’s technological and sporting direction.
This new ownership role expands his remit from skipper to stakeholder, reinforcing his commitment to Italy’s SailGP effort as more than just a hired gun. It also aligns with the broader trend of sailors taking more control over team operations and commercial strategy.
“This isn’t just about owning a team,” said Spithill. “It’s about creating a culture and a long-term platform for high-performance sailing in Italy.”
A bold move for the sport
The acquisition sends a powerful message within the SailGP fleet—and the broader sailing world. At a time when SailGP is pushing hard for growth in emerging markets and demographics, this new ownership model adds diversity and visibility. With a Hollywood A-lister, a female-led business group, and one of the sport’s fiercest competitors in the mix, the Red Bull Italy SailGP Team might just be the story of the 2025–2026 season.
There’s also a larger significance here. While New Zealand’s Black Foils continue to set the pace on the water, international rivals are evolving fast—both in the boardroom and on the racecourse. Italy’s move isn’t just about changing who owns the team. It’s about redefining how a SailGP team can operate, grow, and connect with new fans.
And in a sport where marginal gains can mean the difference between first and last, the energy, vision and commercial pull of this new structure could prove a winning combination.
Looking ahead
While it’s too early to say how this shift will affect race results, it’s already had an impact on public perception. Grazioli-Venier and her team are expected to focus on building stronger brand partnerships, greater audience reach—particularly in Italy and the US—and a deeper talent pipeline for emerging sailors, including women and underrepresented groups.
The announcement also adds weight to ongoing discussions around SailGP’s governance and evolution. As the league matures, expect to see more dynamic team structures emerge—especially if Red Bull Italy’s approach gains traction on and off the water.
For now, the fleet has been put on notice: Red Bull Italy isn’t just in it for the ride. They’re here to race—and reshape the game.
