#SailGPTeams: France
- Romy Kraus
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Ares-Backed Les Bleus: Speed Record Holders Renovate Ambition
One of SailGP’s original six, France is powered by a fresh investment wave—Ares Management and Kylian Mbappé have entered as minority owners—which underscores a renewed push for podium contention. Known for their blistering speed and resilience, the team is currently sitting 6th in the standings after a recent New York podium.
The Team
Driver: Quentin Delapierre, Olympic Nacra 17 sailor, took over helm duties in Season 2 and continues to lead France's competitive charge.
Crew:
Wing Trimmer: Kevin Peponnet
Flight Controller: Jason Saunders
Winches/Strategists: Matthieu Vandame, Timothé Lapauw, Olivier Herlédant, Plus tacticians Manon Audinet & Camille Lecointre—confirmed as the 2025 lineup.
Ownership & Management
Ares Management has acquired a minority stake alongside Mbappé's Coalition Capital, joining existing investor K‑Challenge with backing from Accor.
Kylian Mbappé brings newfound visibility, with his charity 'Inspired by KM' stepping in as the team's official philanthropic partner.
Partners
Operated by K‑Challenge, with Accor hospitality brand as a key sponsor.
Philanthropy: Mbappé's IBKM (‘Inspired by KM’) now integrates youth outreach into the team’s mission.
Key Facts
“Wall Street sails in”
Ares Management’s entry sees the France team join the investment wave fueling SailGP’s global expansion—including celeb-backed franchises. Currently 6th in the 2025 standings.
“99.94 km/h speed demons”
France set the all-time F50 speed record—99.94 km/h in Saint-Tropez (2022)—and remain renowned for excelling in hard-windy conditions.
“Podium rebound in New York”
France delivered a stellar podium in New York (June 2025), reinforcing their mid-season resurgence.
The Lowdown
Performance: Initially absent from the first two rounds due to a late F50 delivery, they rejoined at Sydney. A New York podium now positions them firmly in contention for mid-season recovery.
Identity: A high-octane blend of French engineering, speed pedigree, and star-powered investment, with a dynamic crew and youthful energy.
Growth Direction: With fresh funding and Mbappé-backed outreach, France gears up for their home event—Saint-Tropez (Sept 12–13)—further fuelled by record-setting confidence.
Bottom Line: Les Bleus are in a full renaissance—backed by Wall Street, led by Olympic-grade helming, and hitting speed milestones. After regrouping from early-season delays, they're building momentum and aiming to break back into the top-four battle as 2025 enters its European phase.
