Emirates GBR SailGP Team Makes History with Sailing’s First Transfer Fee Deal for Driver Giles Scott
Emirates GBR SailGP Team recently made headlines in the sailing world by securing sailing‘s first-ever transfer fee deal for their driver Giles Scott. The team’s CEO, Ben Ainslie, negotiated this groundbreaking deal, allowing Scott to join the Canada SailGP Team for the upcoming 2024/2025 season. Scott, a double Olympic gold medalist with Canadian heritage, will be taking over the Driver role from Phil Robertson and will make his debut at the Emirates Dubai Sail Grand Prix in November.
During the previous season, Scott excelled in his role as Driver for the Emirates GBR F50, achieving three podium finishes in as many events. He was part of a talented crew that included Olympic champions and seasoned sailors, which helped him quickly adapt to the Driver role and secure wins for the team.
Ainslie expressed his support for Scott’s move to the Canada SailGP Team, highlighting the exceptional performance of the Emirates GBR team and the strength of the league’s commercialization. The acquisition of the Canada SailGP Team by biotech entrepreneur, Dr. Greg Bailey, was also confirmed by SailGP, ensuring continuity in key markets.
Scott shared his excitement about the new opportunity with the Canada SailGP Team and thanked his former teammates at Emirates GBR. The team will announce its crew lineup for the upcoming season soon, with events like the Emirates Dubai Sail Grand Prix and the Great Britain Sail Grand Prix on the horizon.
Overall, the transfer of Giles Scott and the restructuring of the Canada SailGP Team mark an exciting new chapter in the world of competitive sailing, showcasing the sport’s growth and development on a global scale.
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Oliver Hayes, a seasoned sailor and marine journalist from Southampton, has a profound love for the sea that has shaped his career. Holding a degree in Marine Journalism from the University of Portsmouth, Oliver is celebrated for his compelling and insightful storytelling. His work vividly captures the excitement of sailing and the rich maritime heritage of the United Kingdom, making him a respected figure in the sailing community. When not writing, Oliver enjoys exploring the British Isles’ diverse coastlines and participating in local regattas, always on the lookout for his next nautical adventure.