Scary moment in the video Here the Swiss SailGP team collides with New Zealand

Spectacular start to the 2026 SailGP season: Just one minute after the start, there is a crash between Switzerland and New Zealand.

The racing series made its debut on Saturday in Perth off the historic port city of Fremantle. The opening race at the SailGP in Australia was a tough one: after just over a minute, Switzerland collided with the New Zealand team Black Foils, ending the race for both teams before it had even really begun.

The crew of Switzerland's Sébastien Schneiter had the right of way, but due to a mistake by helmsman Pete Burling, the New Zealand crew reacted too slowly to prevent the collision. The collision was so violent that part of the stern section of the Black Foils was torn off, leaving a hole in the bow of the Swiss boat.

"It all happened very quickly," says Schneiter. "We jibed, the Kiwis did their best, but unfortunately it was too late for them. It was pretty scary."

Schneiter: "Highly motivated to get back to the start"

At least Schneiter can give the all-clear: "Everyone is fine - that's the most important thing," says the Frenchman. With the "serious damage", the first day of racing was over quickly, Schneiter regrets: "That's pretty frustrating, but I'm glad that nobody was injured."

The focus is now on Sunday: "We knew that this season would be a challenge. It won't be the last time we're faced with moments like this. For us, it's about how we recover from it. We are highly motivated to start again tomorrow and learn from this experience as a team," says Schneiter.

At least there is some positive news from the Swiss camp later on. Their catamaran should be ready in time for Sunday's race(live on blue Sport from 8pm) - unlike the New Zealanders, who will now have to try their luck at their home race in Auckland.

You can also watch all SailGP races on free TV on blue Zoom this year.

The standings after the 1st race day in Perth

From the archive