A high-stakes start
Everything was on the line in Race 7. With Australia already guaranteed a spot in the final, the battle was between Emirates GBR, France, Germany, and the Black Foils for the last two places.
The start was tight, with France and Germany launching cleanly from the middle of the line. Emirates GBR once again looked sharp, while New Zealand and Denmark were forced to claw their way back from behind.
Germany needed a standout result to keep their fairytale alive, but from the opening legs it became clear the pressure was telling. Despite moments of brilliance, they never found the consistency to hold the front group.
Switzerland find their moment
While all eyes were on the final qualification battle, Switzerland’s Sébastien Schneiter and crew produced the race of their season. Sailing with precision in the shifting breeze, they pulled clear on the final legs and held their nerve to cross first.
The win was symbolic rather than decisive — too late to influence the overall standings — but for the Swiss, it was a timely reminder of their potential.
The finalists emerge
Behind the Swiss, Emirates GBR kept up their incredible Super Sunday form, finishing second to complete a scoreline of two wins and a runner-up across three races. Australia crossed in third, confirming their place in the final with Emirates GBR.
France were the team under most pressure, but Quentin Delapierre’s crew did enough, holding off challenges from the Black Foils and Denmark to finish fourth. That result secured their place in the three-boat final, eliminating Germany in the process.
Heartbreak for Germany, hope for New Zealand
The German team, roared on by the Sassnitz crowd, could not find the pace they needed. Seventh place ended their hopes of making the grand final on home waters, a cruel blow after the highs of their Race 1 victory.
The Black Foils sailed bravely and crossed fifth, showing flashes of their usual speed. But mid-fleet results across the day meant they, too, missed the cut.
Final three set
After seven fleet races, the final lineup was clear: Australia, Emirates GBR, and France would contest the winner-takes-all showdown for the Germany Sail Grand Prix crown.
For New Zealand, Germany, and Denmark, the lesson was harsh — in Sassnitz’s unpredictable breeze, consistency was everything. For Switzerland, the win was a consolation highlight, proving that on their day, they can beat the best.
