#SailGPTeam: Switzerland
- Romy Kraus
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Eiger Rising: Swiss Reset with Federer Fuel
After a formative stretch on the grid since 2023, Switzerland enters 2025 with renewed grit. Under the leadership of Sébastien Schneiter and backed by a full crew overhaul plus mental coaching from tennis great Roger Federer, they’re aiming to climb from the bottom ranks. Their first-ever Rolex Switzerland Sail Grand Prix will take place in Geneva, marking a major milestone this autumn.
The Team
Driver: Sébastien Schneiter — Olympic 49er sailor, guiding the team through a rebuild after stepping down briefly in Season 4.
Crew Highlights:
Maud Jayet – Paris Olympic veteran, strategist
Arnaud Psarofaghis – America’s Cup–grade wing trimmer
Bryan Mettraux – Flight controller
Matt Gotrel & Stewart Dodson – Grinder duo with prior SailGP wins
Arno de Planta – Pathway athlete and former World Championship medallist
Owners & Management
Ownership: Operates as a private franchise
CEO: Boet Brinkgreve, appointed May 2025 to spearhead culture and performance improvements
Partners
Founding Title Partner: Switzerland SailGP, supporting their debut home event in Geneva
Media Collaboration: Featured in “Racing on the Edge,” with elite mental coaching support from Roger Federer to build confidence and leadership.
Key Facts
“Crew reboot guided by Federer’s wisdom”
Federer met with Schneiter in Zurich mid-season to help the skipper “embrace the pressure…you are a decision maker” — a defining moment for Swiss morale.
“Mixed Olympic and Cup pedigree on deck”
The refreshed crew lineup combines Paris Olympians, America’s Cup talent, and winning veterans—designed to accelerate performance.
“Home Grand Prix arrives in Geneva”
Switzerland's maiden SailGP event is slated for 20–21 September on Lake Geneva, marking the only freshwater stop on the 2025 circuit and a landmark for national support.
The Lowdown
Performance: Ranked roughly 7th in the standings post-New York (9th in that event), showcasing progress after fleet struggles.
Identity: From underdogs to contenders— the team’s Swiss values of precision and resilience are reinforced by Olympic roots and Cup-level reinforcements.
Growth Direction: The Geneva event and team-wide reset signal a serious sprint toward mid-fleet stability—aiming for consistent Top 5 finishes by season’s end.
Bottom Line: Switzerland's SailGP Team is undergoing a deep reboot—new leadership, strengthened crew, and a confidence boost from Federer—all culminating in a high-stakes debut on Lake Geneva. From rebuilding to rallying, the Swiss are mounting their ascent in 2025.
