This is how the fastest racing catamaran in the world works

The F50 catamarans already look impressive over the water surface. The nine meter wide double hull, a sail up to 29 meters high, which is more like a vertical aircraft area. But the decisive components are inconspicuous and are below the water surface: the hydrofoils, for short foils. They lift the boat like wings and let it float around one meter above the water at a breakneck pace.

The low resistance enables a speed of up to 100 km/h at 40 km/h of wind speed. There are faster experimental boats, but they only reach their “top speed” on a straight course. The F50, on the other hand, are built for speed and mobility.

Foil technology has also fundamentally changed the team’s interaction. The helmsman or Driver no longer plays the first violin in the orchestra. The flight controller is just as important. He flies the boat when it stands on the foils about a meter above the water. He needs the Wing Trimmer for his job. With the always optimal control of the sail, it ensures enough pace. If the boat becomes too slow, it falls from the foils. Sailing an F50 requires finely coordinated teamwork.

The Sailgp, which was first held for the first time in 2019, is not a normal sailing competition, but like a car racing for entertaining, action -packed entertainment. The highly bred catamarans race for victory at a mistake in compact 15 to 20 minute races. And all very close to the audience. For non -sailors, the processes on the water are rather difficult to understand. The photo gallery explains the boat and the functions of the individual crew members step by step.