Chris Woodhams

The first-ever Germany Sail Grand Prix delivered pure spectacle on the Baltic. Four races, four different winners, record-breaking speeds, and one dramatic collision made for an opening day that had everything. Sassnitz proved as volatile as promised, with gusty offshore winds and a tight racecourse keeping the fleet on edge.

The opening day of the Germany Sail Grand Prix ended with a fourth different winner in as many races. New Zealand’s Black Foils stormed home in Race 4, surviving penalties and pressure to claim a vital victory in Sassnitz. The race was marred by a dramatic collision between the USA and Emirates GBR, which left both boats damaged and out of contention.

Day one in Sassnitz saw its biggest shake-up yet as Australia set a new SailGP speed record and converted raw pace into a commanding win. France and Germany stayed strong, while the Black Foils faltered to finish deep in the fleet.

After heartbreak in Race 1, Emirates GBR returned with precision to claim victory in the second heat at Sassnitz. France impressed in second, while the Black Foils fought back for a hard-earned fourth as Australia stormed through the pack for a dramatic podium finish.

In a dramatic opening race of the Germany Sail Grand Prix, the Deutsche Bank Germany SailGP Team delivered a stunning come-from-behind victory on home waters, seizing the lead from Emirates GBR in the final upwind leg.