London-based global racing championship group SailGP has marked the official opening of a new centre for innovation, design and engineering in Southampton that will host a team of more than 100 designers, engineers, boat builders and experts in specialist composites, hydraulics, aerodynamics and other fields.
‘The opening of SailGP Technologies represents a major step forward in our continued ability to support a truly global championship,’ said Joel Marginson, director of 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.’
SailGP also confirmed the first six emerging professionals selected to participate in SailGP Technologies Next Gen Careers Program. The first-ever boat building apprenticeship programme – developed and run in collaboration with South Hampshire College Group – is aimed at producing a new generation of skilled professionals in the marine and boatbuilding industry. The programme provides hands-on training and industry-leading expertise to aspiring boatbuilders, composite engineers and other specialist roles. Successful candidates will be based at the Southampton facility, where they will obtain critical skills and knowledge needed to launch or advance their careers, whether within SailGP Technologies or across the wider marine industry.
‘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. 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.’
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The centre will also be a hub for off-water athlete training and development, with a fully operational simulator and development of a programme that will include racing and rule training, simulator sessions, safety and medical training, and role-specific training for incoming SailGP teams and athletes.