Collision in Auckland SailGP Injures Two Sailors

Two sailors were injured in a high-speed collision between the New Zealand and French boats during the third race of the Auckland Sail Grand Prix on Saturday, prompting organizers to abandon the day's remaining competition.

The incident unfolded early in the race as the fleet of 13 identical F50 catamarans approached the first gate at speeds nearing 90 kilometers per hour. Television footage showed the New Zealand vessel, known as the Black Foils, lifting and heeling sharply, which caused its rudder to lift out of the water and led to a loss of control. The boat then spun into the path of the French catamaran, resulting in a severe impact that left the two vessels locked together and both sustaining significant structural damage. They came to a halt on the water, halting the race immediately.

Emergency response teams quickly intervened, ferrying the injured sailors to shore. The two athletes, whose identities have not been disclosed, were stretchered to an onsite medical tent before being transported to a hospital. Officials reported that both were awake, alert, and in stable condition. All other crew members were accounted for, with New Zealand driver Peter Burling confirmed...