Olympic champions reconnect as Emirates GBR retools for another title push
Stuart Bithell joins Emirates GBR SailGP Team in 2026, bringing one of sailing’s most successful modern partnerships back together. The Tokyo 2020 gold medallist will step in as Wing Trimmer for the defending SailGP champions, reuniting with driver Dylan Fletcher and strategist Hannah Mills for the first time in five years.
Bithell arrives with serious momentum after a standout run with the Germany SailGP Team, a campaign that delivered a breakthrough win in Geneva and a podium in Cádiz. His return to the British squad marks a full-circle moment. He was part of the original GBR crew in Season One before shifting focus to his Olympic programme, where he and Fletcher produced an unforgettable victory over New Zealand’s Pete Burling and Blair Tuke.
Team CEO Sir Ben Ainslie said the signing strengthens an already confident group heading into a thirteen-event global calendar. The move also follows the departure of Iain Jensen, who leaves on good terms to represent Australia again next season.
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Bithell is ready for the pressure that comes with joining the reigning champions.
“I’m buzzing to be back with Dylan and Hannah. I know the expectation is high, and I can’t wait to get stuck in.”
Emirates GBR opens its title defence at the Oracle Perth Sail Grand Prix in January.
