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After New Zealand suffered a huge blow following the first day of racing at France Sail Grand Prix | Saint-Tropez when the wing of their F50 collapsed, the bad news continues as a replacement rig can not be transported in time for the next event on September 23-24. As such, New Zealand will not be able to compete at Italy Sail Grand Prix in Taranto.
The league, which supplies the equipment, is now working towards a solution to get the Kiwi team back for the event on October 14-15 in Cádiz, Spain. Additionally, a review of SailGP rules around redress is underway with with all teams.
Following the full structural failure of the team’s wingsail, caused by the wing coming out of alignment, SailGP began investigating options to transport the fleet’s spare wing from New Zealand to Italy and fit it out such that it would be ready to race at the upcoming event.
But due to shipment timelines, along with the extensive setup and testing once it arrives on-site along with the short lead-time between events, it proved to be impossible to get the team on the start line in Taranto.
“We’re working closely with the league to chart a path forward from here,” said Wing trimmer and co-CEO Blair Tuke. “That includes reviewing the rules for redress and compensatory points to ensure this forced non participation does not further hinder our results this season.”
SailGP information – Taranto details – YouTube – How to watch
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