SailGP showcases some of the world’s fastest and most skilled sailors, racing hydrofoiling catamarans at speeds exceeding 50 knots. What many may not know is that several top SailGP athletes have developed their skills in the ILCA class. In this article, we’ll explore how the ILCA’s foundation in boat handling, decision-making, and adaptability has played a key role in shaping some of SailGP’s best sailors.
As lovers of the ILCA class, we know how exciting it is to watch the world’s top sailors compete at the highest level. Many of us have been probably following these days the SailGP regattas around the globe with great interest. These high-speed, adrenaline-pumping races showcase cutting-edge hydrofoiling catamarans that reach speeds of over 50 knots, making them some of the fastest boats in the world.
What truly sets SailGP apart, however, is not just the speed but the fierce competition and strategic maneuvering that take place in such close quarters. Sailors are constantly pushing the limits of skill, technology, and teamwork to outsmart their opponents in these high-stakes races.
In this environment, it’s no surprise that many SailGP sailors have a solid background in the ILCA class. After all, the ILCA is renowned for providing a strong foundation for high-performance sailing. Our single-handed dinghy class teaches sailors essential skills like boat handling, decision-making under pressure, and the ability to adapt quickly to changing wind conditions—all of which are indispensable when it comes to the intense world of SailGP.
Our single-handed dinghy class teaches sailors essential skills like boat handling, decision-making under pressure, and the ability to adapt quickly to changing wind conditions.
The skills developed in the ILCA class translate seamlessly to the fast-paced environment of SailGP. Whether it’s mastering precise control of the boat, strategic thinking, or making split-second decisions in the heat of the race, ILCA sailors are uniquely equipped to excel. The agility and focus that come from years of training in the ILCA class give SailGP sailors an undeniable edge on the water.
Many of the top names in SailGP have honed their skills in the ILCA class, and it’s clear that their experiences there continue to benefit their teams. From skippers to tacticians, grinders to strategists, ILCA sailors bring a wealth of knowledge and tactical prowess to SailGP, elevating their performances on the world stage.
From skippers to tacticians, grinders to strategists, ILCA sailors bring a wealth of knowledge and tactical prowess to SailGP, elevating their performances on the world stage.
As a testament to the enduring connection between our class and the cutting-edge world of SailGP, we can highlight multiple-time ILCA World and Olympic champions such as Ben Ainslie GBR, Tom Slingsby AUS, Paul Goodison GBR and Anne Marie Rindom DEN.
The list continues with many others who have sailed the ILCA and now thrive in SailGP. Among them are the following:
- Ed Baird
- Isabella Bertold
- Billy Besson
- Nathalie Brugger
- Francesco Bruni
- Peter Burling
- Joan Cardona
- Ben Cornish
- Ray Davies
- Quentin Delapierre
- Ben Durham
- Jareese Finch
- Maelle Frascari
- Kinley Fowler
- Paul Goodison
- Kai Hockley
- Nick Hutton
- Rome Kirby
- Maud Jayet
- Josh Junior
- Kyle Langford
- Andy Maloney
- Eliot Merceron
- Nathan Outteridge
- Tom Ramshaw
- Erika Reineke
- Anne Marie Rindom
- Amélie Riou
- Phil Robertson
- Joel Rodriguez
- Simone Salva
- Giles Scott
- Sébastien Schneiter
- Tom Slingsby
- Blair Tuke
- Enrico Voltolini
In the end, who hasn’t sailed an ILCA or Laser at some point in their life? No matter your age or location, you’ll certainly find an ILCA boat and a competitive fleet around you to enjoy!
We apologise in advance as we may have missed some names. Please feel free to reach out and let us know who we should add to the list!
Keep smiling, keep sailing,
The EurILCA team
Written by Agustín Argüelles – EurILCA | Photos supplied by SailGP.
