It's all on for AUS and NZL at France SailGP
by Olivia Hogan / Australia SailGP Team 9 Sep 2023 07:40 AEST
9-10 September 2023
Australia SailGP Team helmed by Tom Slingsby sail past the bell tower and old town of Saint-Tropez during a practice session ahead of the France Sail Grand Prix in Saint-Tropez, France. 8th September © Ian Walton for SailGP
As the France Sail Grand Prix approaches, shots have been fired between the two sailing powerhouses, Australia and New Zealand.
At this morning's pre-event press conference, Australian driver Tom Slingsby admitted last season's dramatic incident against the Kiwis was one he'll "never let go," describing "having to watch the replays and promos on repeat, non-stop of [me] losing my cool."
New Zealand driver Peter Burling commented: "I think we all know Tom holds a grudge for quite a while."
Historically the Australians have never succeeded in St Tropez. In Season 2, the team finished 8th at the back of the fleet in Saint-Tropez, while in Season 3, they finished 5th. "Saint-Tropez was our worst event in Season 2 & 3, and we all acknowledge that we aren't comfortable here," he said.
As hard as it is to watch the racing where you get your arse kicked - we've gone back and watched that to figure out why we were losing so badly," he said. "We've got to figure out this venue, the wind shifts and how the racecourse works and do a better job this season.
The France Sail Grand Prix | Saint Tropez will take place on September 9-10, with racing scheduled between 1.30pm- 3pm CEST. Australians will be able to tune into the action on Fox Sports and Kayo Sports Freebies.