Artemis SailGP Strengthens its Swedish Core
Artemis SailGP has confirmed two new signings ahead of its debut in the Rolex SailGP Championship. Swedish sailors Hugo Christensson and Felicia Fernström join the team as reserve athletes, stepping up from Youth and Women’s America’s Cup campaigns into one of the toughest professional arenas in the sport.
Both sailors have already proven they belong on the international stage. They raced for Swedish Challenge Powered by Artemis Technologies in the 2024 Women’s and Youth America’s Cup and have also competed in the RC44 circuit. Their move into the SailGP squad is part of Artemis SailGP’s long-term plan to build a strong national pathway for Swedish sailors.
Iain Percy, CEO of Artemis SailGP, highlights the bigger picture behind the signings.
“We want to create a clear journey for young Swedish sailors to reach the very top of professional sailing. Hugo and Felicia are perfect examples of this. They have shown real quality in America’s Cup settings and in the RC44 series. It feels right to bring them into the SailGP team for our first season.”
For Christensson, the news still feels surreal.
“I have followed SailGP since day one. To be part of it now is a dream come true. I am ready to contribute wherever the team needs me.”
Fernström will combine her reserve sailor role with a place on the shore team. She will help prepare the high-tech F50 for racing and sees the opportunity as a natural next step in her development.
“Artemis has played a huge role in my growth as a sailor. SailGP is a place where you can test your limits and keep evolving. I also value how clearly the league invests in creating space for female sailors. I am proud to continue that journey with Artemis.”
Christensson and Fernström join a roster that already includes skipper Nathan Outteridge, strategist Julia Gross and grinder Julius Hallström. More crew announcements will follow in the lead-up to the season opener in Perth in January.
Red Bull Italy SailGP Team Makes Bold Moves
While Artemis strengthens its future, Red Bull Italy SailGP Team is reshaping its present. The Italian squad has announced a major restructuring, bringing in two high-profile athletes for the final event of the current season and for the years ahead.
Double World Champion and SailGP race winner Phil Robertson joins the team as driver. Alongside him comes 49erFX Olympian Jana Germani as strategist. Both will make their competitive debut for Italy in Abu Dhabi later this month.
The decision means Olympic champion Ruggero Tita and strategist Maelle Frascari will step back into supporting roles within the team. It is a bold change at a critical moment, and signals Red Bull Italy’s clear priority: winning.
Team CEO Jimmy Spithill explains the move.
“Anytime you can add Olympic, SailGP, or World Championship level talent, it is a great day for the team. Bringing in Jana and Phil puts the squad in a strong position for the seasons ahead.”
Germani steps in after a strong Olympic cycle and brings a fresh tactical perspective. For the 49erFX sailor, the shift into SailGP marks a major step into the professional arena. Robertson arrives with deep SailGP experience. He has helmed for Canada, China, and Spain, and is known for his sharp decision making under pressure.
The decision to make these changes right before the season finale has raised eyebrows. But the team sees it as a strategic reset.
“The early debut in Abu Dhabi will help prepare for the start of Season 6 in Perth. It gives the group a chance to build communication and coordination from day one,” the team said in a statement.
Tita remains an alternate driver and continues to play a central part in the squad. Frascari also stays on the roster and will support team operations with her experience.
The goal behind the shake-up is clear.
“The objective is to build a high-performance team that can win SailGP events and stay consistently among the best in the world. A deep roster with strong alternatives will make the team more resilient for the future.”
A New Chapter for Both Teams
Today’s announcements show a sport that is evolving fast. Artemis leans into youth development and national identity. Red Bull Italy focuses on depth, experience and immediate performance. Both moves reflect the broader transformation of professional sailing: more competitive, more inclusive and more strategic.
New athletes. New opportunities. New pressure.
Season 6 is already taking shape, and it is clear that the stakes could not be higher.
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