#SailGPTeam: Deutsche Bank Germany
- Romy Kraus
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Entering its second season, the Germany SailGP Team—backed by Deutsche Bank—has shown rapid progress. Co-owned by Sebastian Vettel (four‑time F1 champion) and tech entrepreneur Thomas Riedel, with Olympian Erik Heil at the helm, they face both racing and regulatory tests early in 2025. Their spotlight moment? Racing on home waters in Sassnitz this August—their debut German Grand Prix.
The Team
Driver: Erik Heil – double Olympic bronze medallist in 49er (2016, 2020) and lead helm since Season 4’s start in mid‑2023.
Crew: Includes wing-trimmer Stuart Bithell, flight-controller James Wierzbowski, and Anna Barth (strategist, U21 world champ). New for 2025: Will Tiller joins as a grinder.
The Owners & Management
Owners: Sebastian Vettel (active advisor) and Thomas Riedel, steering the franchise forward.
Management: CEO Tim Krieglstein, former Red Bull marketing lead, joining for Season 2’s relaunch.
The Partners
Title Sponsor – Deutsche Bank: Anchor financial sponsor since the team’s launch.
Apparel Partner – Helly Hansen: Became official kit supplier in 2024–25, supplying cutting-edge gear for demanding F50 racing conditions.
Key Facts
“Penalty‑hit but unfazed”
Germany received a –8 point penalty early in Sydney (KPMG Australia event) after two training collisions, setting them back in the championship.
“Olympian leader, steep learning curve”
Erik Heil brings Olympic pedigree to the helm. The team's early season penalty doesn’t diminish their clear ascent—Heil and crew are quickly building cohesion.
“Home Grand Prix set to inspire”
The upcoming Sassnitz Germany Sail Grand Prix (Aug 16–17) marks Germany’s first SailGP event—Vettel described it as a “milestone” expected to ignite public passion at home.
Bottom Line: Deutsche Bank Germany entered Season 5 with high ambition and Olympic talent. Though early fouls cost them dearly, they’ve emerged stronger and more disciplined—prime to electrify fans at their home round and build lasting foundations for future SailGP success.
