Aussie Jimmy Spithill Ready to Take on Former Team: The SailGP showdown in Dubai is set to ignite some fierce rivalries, with a special focus on the rebranded Team USA and its former skipper, Jimmy Spithill.
Spithill, now at the helm of Team Australia’s “Flying Roo” foiling catamaran, steps in for friend Tom Slingsby during his paternity leave. This comes after Spithill’s recent departure from Team USA, which has undergone changes with a new private American ownership group featuring investors like Alabama linebacker Dallas Turner and actress Issa Rae.
Expressing his eagerness, Spithill said, “No question, I’d love to go out and absolutely smoke those guys.” However, he emphasized the crucial lesson learned in SailGP about not fixating on a single team to avoid falling behind in the intense racing format.
The upcoming regatta marks Spithill’s return since guiding the American catamaran to victory in Spain during Season 4. While aiming to outperform his former team, he also seeks to maintain Australia’s dominance, having clinched victory in Dubai last season. The Aussies, yet to secure a win in Season 4, lead Denmark by seven points, with Team USA, now under skipper Taylor Canfield, trailing by an additional four points in third.
Following fleet racing over the weekend, the top three boats will advance to the podium race.
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This event signifies Spithill’s first appearance for his home country since 2001. In the intervening years, he has solidified his status as a top sailor, winning the America’s Cup twice for Oracle Team USA and participating twice more, including the 2021 edition with Italy’s Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli Team.
Spithill expressed excitement about returning to the green and gold, acknowledging the benchmark status of Team Australia in SailGP. Canfield, leading Team USA, sees this as an incredible opportunity amidst new investors, recognizing the overwhelming yet enjoyable journey ahead.
The regatta also marks the return of Ben Ainslie and Peter Burling, with Ainslie’s aggressive move in Spain still fresh in memory. Despite the on-water tension, Burling and Ainslie embrace the rivalry, with the latter remaining unapologetic, emphasizing the emotional investment in the sport. The stage is set for SailGP action in Dubai, promising thrilling competition and fierce rivalries on the open waters.
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