Global racing championship group SailGP has opened the doors to a new $10m (£7.5m) innovation facility in Southampton.
SailGP Technologies will serve as a hub for design and engineering for the group, brining in 100 high-skilled workers in the state-of-the-art facility.
The London-headquartered sailing league chose Southampton for the new home of its engineering and innovation centre due to both its proximity to the UK capital and the wider global racing calendar. Its original facility was based in New Zealand.
“The opening of SailGP Technologies represents a major step forward in our continued ability to support a truly global championship,” said SailGP Technologies director Joel Marginson.
“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.”
As part of the launch, the organisation has launched an engineering apprenticeship scheme in collaboration with South Hampshire College Group, called the SailGP Technologies Next Gen Careers Program. Successful candidates will train with the SailGP Technologies team as a first step in their marine engineering careers.
“Launching this facility is a major milestone for SailGP, our teams and partners,” added Sir Russell Coutts, SailGP chief executive.
“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.”
The site was opened ahead of the Emirates Great Britain Sail Grand Prix, set to take place this weekend.
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