Outteridge swaps NZ boat to take wheel for Switzerland

Nathan Outteridge has been rewarded for his fine performances as a stand-in skipper in SailGP by being handed the wheel of the Swiss boat for the remainder of season 4.

The double-Olympic medallist replaces Sebastien Schneiter, who stepped aside to focus on his Paris 2024 Olympic campaign.

Last month, Outteridge, a SailGP veteran, took the wheel of New Zealand’s F50

Amokura in Sydney, because driver and co-CEO Peter Burling was at home for the birth of his first child.

Now, with Burling back in action for New Zealand, Outteridge has switched to the Swiss boat. He will renew his rivalry with New South Welshman Tom Slingsby, who beat Outteridge – then driving the Japan entry – in the final of season 1 in 2019.

Slingsby's Australia boat is the current race leader, having held off Outteridge, helming for New Zealand, in last month's

Sydney leg. Slingsby came first and Outteridge third, with Denmark splitting the pair.

Ironically, Outteridge has also been a stand-in for Denmark this season but has been working with the Swiss since late 2022.

A team statement said: “Outteridge ... has been supporting the Swiss over the past 18 months in a number of roles, from sailing adviser and coach, to co-driver and strategist. His experience in the league and sailing credentials makes him a natural replacement for Schneiter.’’

The 38-year-old, who won Olympic gold at London 2012 and silver at Rio 2016, said: “It's an honour to be asked [to take over] and it’s been a real pleasure working with the team for the past 18 months.

“I've learned a lot from my different roles and now understand so much more about the F50, other than only being behind the wheel and driving it.’’

Swiss team chief executive Tanguy Cariou said: “There's no-one better who can help enhance the team's performance.’’