Melges, from Lake Geneva, WI, joined the team in Abu Dhabi this week and will begin logging training hours required to receive an F50 license.
“I am extremely excited to be joining the U.S SailGP Team,” said Melges IV. “I’ve known Mike for a long time and have had my eye on what he is building.”
Melges IV adds “Spending time with the team, you notice how much effort is going in behind the scenes and how committed everyone is to raise the standard each day. Being part of an all-American team at this level is a dream come true and I can’t wait to get to work.”
Melges IV arrives with a standout resume, including being named the 2021 US Rolex Yachtsman of the Year, winning the 2025 TP52 World Championship and the overall season title. He is the grandson of Harry ‘Buddy’ Melges, a two-time Olympic medalist and one of the most celebrated competitive sailors in history.
U.S. SailGP Team CEO, Co-Owner and Strategist Mike Buckley said the move reflects the team’s long term commitment to performance and development.
“Harry is a generational talent and although he has had great success across many classes he is truly at the beginning of his racing career,” said Buckley. “We’re thrilled to add Harry to our roster before the final event of the season, as it gives him valuable time to get to know the team and understand how we work heading into next season.
Buckley adds “We will always look for ways to strengthen our roster and add depth to the most critical positions as we aim to move up the grid and we have done just that by signing Harry. We are looking forward to integrating him into the team and making the most of our time in Abu Dhabi.”
