Italy’s Sailing Icons Unite for a Game-Changing Entry into SailGP’s High-Octane Racing Series.
November 21, 2024
Dubai, UAE – A new chapter in competitive sailing begins as Italy makes its long-anticipated debut in SailGP, the pinnacle of high-speed sailing. With Olympic champions, America’s Cup veterans, and seasoned sailors at the helm, the newly formed Red Bull Italy SailGP Team is setting sail with high expectations and a roster packed with star power.
– The team, officially unveiled today, will compete for the first time at the Emirates Dubai Sail Grand Prix, presented by P&O Marinas, this weekend. The event marks the start of the 2025 SailGP Season, a thrilling global series featuring the world’s fastest sailboats and elite sailing talent.
– At the heart of the team is a formidable duo: Jimmy Spithill, America’s Cup legend, and team CEO, and Ruggero Tita, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and reigning Nacra 17 champion, who will take the helm as driver. Tita’s expertise, honed during his time with Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli alongside Spithill, is expected to shine as he navigates the demanding SailGP circuit for the first time.
– Joining Tita are Giulia Fava, a groundbreaking sailor who recently won the inaugural Women’s America’s Cup, and Andrea Tesei, an experienced flight controller tasked with managing the F50’s high-tech foils. Adding further depth is Kyle Langford, a three-time SailGP champion making a surprise move from Team Australia to strengthen Italy’s campaign.
– The team is supported by grinders Matteo Celon and Enrico Voltolini, both accomplished sailors, and Alex Sinclair, a key addition from Spithill’s former US crew. Guiding their strategy from the sidelines is Philippe Presti, a coach with an enviable track record in SailGP and America’s Cup competitions.
– The Red Bull Italy SailGP Team aims to captivate Italian fans while competing at the highest level of the sport.
– Spithill, who has long admired Italy’s passion for sailing, expressed confidence in the team’s potential: “Italy has an incredible pool of talent and a fanbase that is fiercely loyal. This team is a mix of seasoned champions and rising stars, and I can’t wait to see what they’ll achieve on the water.”
– Driver Ruggero Tita added: “Being part of the first Italian team in SailGP is an honor. We’re ready to make a strong debut in Dubai and are excited to race on home waters next September in Taranto.”
– The team’s reveal at their Dubai base was nothing short of spectacular. Acro-paraglider Horacio Llorens delivered the team’s racing helmets from the sky, while live performances by breakdancer Alessandra Chillemi, freestyle footballer Sean Garnier, and BMX rider Viki Gomez set the stage for the grand unveiling. Guests were also treated to a high-speed demonstration of the team’s F50 catamaran in action.
– Headquartered in Marina Monfalcone, near Trieste, Italy’s sailing heartland, the team is eagerly anticipating their home race at the ROCKWOOL Italy Sail Grand Prix in Taranto, Puglia, on September 6-7, 2025. Tickets for the event will be available from December 11, with fans encouraged to secure pre-sale access.
– With 12 nations and 14 events across five continents, the 2025 SailGP Season promises unparalleled excitement. The action kicks off this weekend in Dubai, where Red Bull Italy SailGP Team will look to make their mark in the world’s most competitive sailing series.
