Review. The Black Foils lead the overall rankings with a dramatic win over New Zealand SailGB

New Zealand won on home soil today at the ITM New Zealand SailGP in Christchurch. Thanks to a strong performance on 'Super Sunday', Peter Burling's Black Foils managed to hold off the French and Canadians.

Super Sunday after video canceled races

After Saturday's races were canceled due to dolphin swims, the 'Super Sunday' format was introduced on Sunday. The format consisted of three fleet races and a final race in which the winner took all.

Chaos in Race 1: A collision with a float completely shook up the rankings

Sunday's first race provided immediate fireworks. The Australian boat leading the rankings for the event hit a buoy and suffered extensive damage. As a result, they had to leave, which had major consequences for the rest of the rankings.

Thom Tom Slingsby said:

“Everything was a blur. As we rounded the buoy we had two boats inside and it looked like we were going to Canada. The decision had to be made very quickly, but the safety of the team was the most important thing, so we headed straight for the float. It still hasn't really sunk in, and the result is that I'm glad everyone on our team is safe.

The second race was won by Canada, led by New Zealand driver Bill Robertson. From the start it felt like a Canadian race. Robertson later quipped to the audience:

“I think I became the favorite Kiwi by knocking the Australians out of the running in the first race.”

France's Quentin Delabier won the third and final race for the podium. This ensured that three different teams – France, New Zealand and defending champions Canada – would face each other in the final with three different wins.

The Black Foils won the final

Ultimately, the Black Foils managed to qualify for the finals where they competed against France and Canada. In a thrilling race, the New Zealanders took a strong lead and held it until the end, taking the overall lead from Australia.

Peter Burling said after the final:

“This is the best day in SailGB history. To make it to the finals after such a battle is something that really impresses me. Sailing in front of our home crowd is something we've been looking forward to all season and to win in front of them today was incredible.

Results ITM New Zealand SailGP

1. New Zealand
2. France
3. Canada
4. Spain
5. Germany
6. Switzerland
7. Emirates GBR*
8. America
9. Rockwool Denmark*
10. Australia*

Season 4 levels

1. 1 New Zealand – 68
2. Australia – 59
3. Spain-55
4. France – 54
5. Rockwool Denmark – 50
6. USA – 48
7. Canada: 46
8. Emirates GPR – 45
9. Germany – 27
10. Switzerland – 22