Swiss driver Sebastien Schneiter has unpacked the team’s drastically improved on-water performance so far this season, announcing ‘Switzerland has entered the chat”.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of this weekend’s Rolex Los Angeles Sail Grand Prix on March 15/16, Schneiter said he was pleased with the team’s performance since unveiling a refreshed crew line-up at the beginning of the season.
The new squad comprises seasoned Swiss Olympians, America’s Cup experience and experienced grinders with a ‘totally new mindset’, according to team SEO Tanguy Cariou.
The team has improved at every event so far this season, topping a 9th place finish in Dubai with a 7th place finish in Auckland and a 5th place finish at last month’s Sydney event.
Speaking about the season so far, Schneiter said: “We made good progress since the beginning of the season and we’re pleased with that, but we’re not satisfied and we want to keep pushing forward. As a group we want to win, we know that might not happen today, but we’re working hard for it.”
The on-water performance has seen moments of starting brilliance and strong fleet racing results, with two race wins, three podium finishes and three fourth places.
The new line-up has been key in achieving these improved results, Schneiter said. “I guess in the end it’s all about being a good group of people who can work together well. We have achieved that. We have worked very hard over the two seasons to create that group and I'm grateful to be surrounded by great athletes.”
However, he said it would be a ‘mistake’ for the team to become too fixated on results. “Of course, a podium is always great, but for us it would be a mistake to focus too much on that or the results,” he said. "We have to focus on us and the process.”
Looking ahead to the weekend, Schneiter said the team would be looking to stay safe in practice racing and minimize on-water errors, referencing the practice racing chaos of Sydney.
“In the practice days there's more to lose than to win, so we keep an eye on all the other boats as much as we can. I think we saw how quickly the season can turn around [in Sydney] and for us it’s about not making silly mistakes.”
The 12-strong F50 fleet will go to battle on the Port of Los Angeles on March 15/16
