Severe Collision Between New Zealand and France Sailboats in Auckland, Two Sailors Injured

Feb 14, 2026
International

Image: Peter Burling’s ‘Black Foyles SailGP Team’ (New Zealand) colliding with Quentin Delapierre’s ‘DS Automobiles SailGP Team France’ during the first day of ITM New Zealand Sail Grand Prix in Auckland (Collected. Al Jazeera. Andrew Baker/AP)

International Desk | PNN

On the first day of the SailGP racing competition in Auckland, New Zealand, a serious accident occurred between the fast-moving yachts of New Zealand and France, resulting in injuries to two sailors, one of whom is in critical condition.

The accident happened during the third race on Saturday. Eyewitnesses reported that while traveling at nearly 90 km/h (56 mph), the New Zealand boat suddenly lost control and collided directly with the French boat. The speed and impact caused the French boat to ride over the New Zealand boat, entangling both vessels.

Analysis of television footage revealed that a technical malfunction in the New Zealand boat’s radar (steering device) caused the collision, preventing the driver from avoiding the crash.

In the collision, New Zealand team grinder Lewis Sinclair was seriously injured. He was rushed to a hospital in Auckland, with both legs suffering compound fractures. Although his condition is now stable, long-term treatment will be required. Additionally, a French team sailor sustained minor injuries.

A statement from the New Zealand team said:

"Lewis Sinclair is currently stable and undergoing treatment. This is a major setback for us."

French skipper Quentin Delapierre described the incident as “terrible,” adding:

"Everything happened so fast that we could do nothing. I tried my best to avoid the collision but failed. We are all stunned."

Experienced New Zealand skipper Peter Burling also expressed deep sorrow over the incident. Notably, earlier in the season in Australia, Burling’s driving license had received demerit points due to another collision.

The remaining races on Saturday were canceled, and the two damaged boats were recovered and brought back to the dock.

The competition features 50-foot high-speed catamarans that can fly above water using foils at speeds of up to 100 km/h, with participation from 13 countries.

Due to forecasted thunderstorms on Sunday, the race schedule has been moved forward, and although Australia and New Zealand are currently leading the points table, the impact of this accident is expected to affect the entire season’s standings.