Day 2 of SailGP in San Francisco kicked off with an electrifying fifth fleet race, as teams battled for a spot in the top three and a chance at the multi-million-dollar prize in the grand final. With only three fleet races remaining before the San Francisco leg final, every point counted, and the pressure was evident from the start.
A fierce start
Canada was first off the start line, displaying the aggressive sailing that had put them at the top of the leaderboard on Day 1. As the fleet powered towards the first gate, Switzerland and Germany joined Canada in the leading pack. However, the French team, desperate to make up ground and secure a finals spot, quickly surged forwards, moving into third place before the first leg was complete.
By the time the boats reached the second gate, Switzerland had taken the lead, with France right behind them. Meanwhile, New Zealand’s Black Foils were struggling in tenth place, their chances of making the final slipping further away. With only two races left after this, they would need a dramatic turnaround to stay in contention.
Mid-race battles
As the fleet rounded the third gate, France took control of the race, followed closely by Canada and Spain. With their finals hopes on the line, the French crew executed precise manoeuvres, gaining critical speed downwind. Their determination to win was clear—if they could hold on, they’d move up the San Francisco leaderboard and keep their championship dreams alive.
Switzerland wasn’t backing down, pushing hard against the French through the fourth gate. Both boats approached nearly simultaneously, but a well-timed gust in France’s favour saw them gain a crucial advantage. With this momentum, the French team extended their lead, creating a substantial gap between them and the chasing fleet. Spain, Canada, and Australia were left fighting for the remaining top spots.
A lesson on finishing by France
Approaching the final gate, France had built an unassailable lead. Their final manoeuvre was flawless, cementing a well-deserved victory in Race 5. It was a critical win that not only showcased their skill but also gave them a fighting chance for the finals.
Switzerland followed in second place after an impressive race, while Spain rounded out the podium in third. Canada and Australia finished fourth and fifth respectively, maintaining their strong overall performances.
Further down the fleet, penalties and tactical missteps plagued Germany and Italy, with both teams receiving multiple infringements for rule breaches and boundary violations. The USA also struggled, finishing near the back after a costly foil issue.
For New Zealand, it was a disappointing result. Finishing in eighth place, they were stuck in the middle of the fleet, unable to gain the critical points needed to keep them in the running for the finals. Major strategic and tactical improvements are required in the remaining two fleet races if they wanted any shot at the title.
What’s next?
With France’s win shaking up the leaderboard, the battle for the top three final spots remains wide open. With two more fleet races and the final still to come, the competition is far from over. Can Canada maintain their overall lead? Will New Zealand bounce back? Stay tuned as SailGP San Francisco heads into its most crucial stage yet.
