Local advantage

Despite this, Delapierre’s team rallied to beat Emirates GBR and BONDS Flying Roos in the three-boat Grand Final to log their first Grand Prix win since Sydney in 2023.

It was a much-needed boost at a critical point of the 2025 Season, keeping France in touching distance of the overall podium – and proof they have what it takes to beat the best.

“This season has been hard for us, but we keep fighting,” Delapierre said. “Trust me, it’s not easy to keep watching teams racing when you’re stuck on the shore. It’s not a feeling we enjoyed, but it is what it is. We have known for months now that we have a good understanding of the new foils, and we will try to win as many Grands Prix as we can.

“We’ve had a lot of bad luck with delays and breakages but this wasn’t in our control. You can see in the eyes of our athletes that they’re super motivated, they just want to show they’re able to win not only one Grand Prix but many of them. I think this season the team is more consistent and skillful than ever before, and if we sail well from here on in we can have a wonderful season.”

ROCKWOOL Racing obliterated the long-standing 99.94km/h speed record France set in Saint-Tropez in 2023 during day one in Sassnitz, hitting a massive 103.93km/h.

While conceding that reclaiming the speed record won’t be France’s primary focus in Saint-Tropez, Delapierre said it would be on his mind when racing kicks off on September 12/13.

“When someone takes something from you, you want to take it back,” he said with a wry smile.

Delapierre said the introduction of upgraded high-speed rudders for Saint-Tropez could unlock even faster speeds, if the stars align.

“The Danish team broke the record in Sassnitz using the old-school high-speed rudder, and we will have the newer, faster ones on in Saint-Tropez,” he added.

“It’s really possible that the speed record is broken in Saint-Tropez if we have the right conditions.”

France is known as a nation of sailing fans, and tickets are all but sold out for both days in Saint-Tropez, ensuring packed grandstands and a party atmosphere.

Delapierre said he’s buzzing to experience the roar of the home crowd, which will undoubtedly be deafening if they can pull off another victory.

“There are two Grands Prix that stand out for me every season – Sydney, and Saint-Tropez,” he said.

“This city is really special, especially to the French, but internationally too. It’s charming – you’re sailing in front of the iconic church, many wonderful boats, and thousands of French sailing fans who just love to see SailGP in person.

“The ambience is amazing, the energy is super good. I want to hear the fans shouting for us and pushing us super hard. And if we have a good result it will be the cherry on the cake.”

Limited tickets for Friday 12 September are available online. To find out how to watch the ROCKWOOL France Sail Grand Prix wherever you are in the world, click HERE.

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