Another frustrating weekend for Dylan Fletcher and the Emirates GBR team, sidelined by a last minute change to the SailGP Geneva Grand Prix racing programme.
With even less wind for the start of second day of the Geneva Grand Prix the programme was set for one race for each Group.
In their Group B race 4, Tom Slingsby and the Bonds Flying Roos managed a foiling start and led at mark 1 from Giles Scott Northstar and Emirates GBR. By gate 4 the Aussies were non-foiling but led to the finish ahead of Northstar and Emirates GBR.
At this point Fletcher was confident that they were in the Final race sail-off, a point ahead of Canada’s Northstar. Only for that scenario to be upset by the Race Management opting to run an additional race for each fleet group, putting the positions up for grabs again.
In that fifth extra race Emirates GBR crossed the start line late, with only Canada behind them.
Switzerland’s Sebastian Schneiter sailed a blinder to take the race win, and the Final race spot, while the British team compounded a tough weekend by finishing last.
After what has been a poor run since a second place in New York back in May, failing to make a Final place over the last five events, qualification for the Grand Final in Abu Dahbi looks a difficult ask.
They now have a ten week break from the SailGP Championship Circuit before they regroup in the UAE for final two events – Dubai and Abu Dahbi – in November.
During that period some Emirates GBR SailGP team members will take part in the second Louis Vuitton 38th America’s Cup Preliminary Regatta (PR2) in Naples from 24 September 2026.
The extended break from the pressure of their struggles in the SailGP Championship, especially if they perform well in the America’s Cup format, will perhaps revitalize them on their return to SailGP duty . . . If it does eventually take place.
2026 Season Championship Leaderboard
Next Rolex SailGP event is Dubai 21-22 Nov and then Abu Dhabi for the concluding Grand Final 28-29 November 2026.