Skip to content

SailGP Portsmouth Analysis

Justin Chisholm and Magnus Wheatley unpack the highs and lows of SailGP Portsmouth — from Team GB’s home-water resurgence to bold new ideas for the league’s future — plus some candid reflections on SailGP's media strategy.

Jason Ludlow for SailGP

Powered by RedCircle

Episode Summary:

In the latest episode of The Yacht Racing Life Podcast, Justin Chisholm sits down with fellow sailing journalist Magnus Wheatley to unpack a packed weekend of world-class racing at last weekend's British SailGP event. From the electric atmosphere in Portsmouth to Britain’s much-needed resurgence, the pair dive deep into the stories behind the racing – from Dylan Fletcher’s standout performance under pressure to the bold new ideas shaping the league’s future.

Key Highlights:

  • On-the-water impressions: Why the stadium-style SailGP experience is unlike anything else in sailing.
  • Team GB’s bounce back: Dylan Fletcher, Hannah Mills, and the crew deliver under home pressure.
  • Big picture SailGP: Russell Coutts’ vision – including a dedicated “tech ship” and propulsion-assisted racing for light venues.
  • Women at the wheel? What’s next for female sailors in the league – and is Hannah Mills in line for her own SailGP team?
  • Swiss breakthrough & Italian struggles: Which teams impressed and which left questions unanswered.
  • Press conference candour: Why SailGP’s media approach still misses the mark.
  • Human story: Magnus shares his involvement in helping blind sailor Danny Phipps attempt a solo circumnavigation of the Isle of Wight.

About the Guest:

Magnus Wheatley is a veteran sailing journalist and commentator, best known for his Rule 69 Substack, where he offers sharp insight and candid commentary on the world of professional yacht racing.

Call to Action:

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to The Yacht Racing Life Podcast on your favourite platform and share it with your sailing friends.

Garmin quatix® 8 – 47 mm, AMOLED: The Ultimate Smartwatch for Yacht Racers

The Garmin quatix® 8 – 47 mm, AMOLED is more than a smartwatch – it’s a race tool for serious sailors. With GPS-assisted start functions, full Garmin marine integration, and a stunning AMOLED display, it’s built to give yacht racers an edge on and off the water.

FIND OUT MORE

Comments

Latest

PlanetSail: Next Gen Beasts

PlanetSail: Next Gen Beasts

Two big launches at opposite ends of the world. On top, the 32m Ultim trimaran Gitana 18 headed out from her base in Lorient on the west coast of France for her maiden sail. Down under the Kiwis slipped their dock lines in Auckland to take their newly reconfigured AC75 out for its first sail.

Free Members Public
Friday debrief

Friday debrief

First outings for Gitana Edmond de Rothschild and Emirates Team New Zealand; Podcast: James Pleasance - World Match Racing Tour; Making sense of Grand Prix sailing’s fragmented landscape

Free Members Public