SailGP has officially opened SailGP Technologies – a US $10 million facility located in Southampton, UK, that will be the racing championship’s center of innovation, design, and engineering.
The new base will house a team of more than 100 designers, engineers, boat builders and experts in specialist composites, hydraulics, aerodynamics and other fields.
SailGP says the facility represents a strategic investment in the future of the Rolex SailGP Championship.
The centre will be used to drive forward innovation in design and development, and furthering the construction of additional boats to the fleet.
The location was chosen due to its proximity to SailGP’s London HQ, following the re-location from the original facility in New Zealand in late 2023.
This facility gives us greater control and resilience across the fleet.
Joel Marginson
“The opening of SailGP Technologies represents a major step forward in our continued ability to support a truly global championship,” said Joel Marginson, director SailGP Technologies.
“This facility gives us greater control and resilience across the fleet, enabling faster turnaround of repairs, more consistent performance, and a reliable supply of spares while on tour.
“It’s a key step in future-proofing SailGP – ensuring we can deliver uncompromised high-performance racing, anywhere in the world.”
The centre will also be a hub for future off-water athlete training and development, with a fully operational simulator, and forthcoming development of an SailGP Athlete Integration Training Programme.
The programme will incorporate racing and rule training, simulator sessions, safety and medical training, and role specific training for incoming SailGP teams and athletes.
SailGP is also launching its first boat building apprenticeship programme in collaboration with South Hampshire College Group.
The Next Gen Careers Programme, based out of the new SailGP Technologies’ facility, is aimed at developing a new generation of skilled professionals in the marine and boatbuilding industry.
Aspiring boatbuilders
Hands-on training and industry-leading experience will be given to aspiring boatbuilders, composite engineers and other specialist roles.
“Launching this facility is a major milestone for SailGP, our teams and partners,” said Sir Russell Coutts, SailGP CEO and co-founder.
“As we grow, it’s incredibly important to have fully integrated capabilities and expertise. This state-of-the-art facility will enable SailGP to remain at the very forefront of industry technology and innovation.”
He added: “Just as importantly, we’re committed to developing the next generation of boat building talent through our apprenticeship scheme, helping to secure the future of the wider industry.”
