From Australia performing a characteristic day 2 comeback to Abu Dhabi’s congested leaderboard, we pick out five things to watch out for when racing resumes at 14:00 GST on January 14.
Can Australia perform a characteristic day 2 comeback?
The Aussies had a tricky start in Abu Dhabi, finishing the first day with a 2-9-6 race record, and in 6th overall tied on points with ROCKWOOL DEN. But it’s far from game over. Australia are known for performing under pressure and have a track record of scraping into the three-boat Final by the thinnest margins. Can they do it again in Abu Dhabi?
Congested leaderboard
There are just 5 points separating Diego Botin’s Spain in 1st place to Tom Slingsby Australia in 6th, which means there’s everything left to play for when racing resumes at 14:00 GST. Just a single fleet race could lead to a complete reshuffle of the leaderboard - so which teams will hold their nerve and make the Final?
Spain's light wind masterclass
Despite a dreadful 10th place finish in the first fleet race, Spain mastered the light airs and 29m wing to secure two bullets and end the day in first overall. The team’s only event win so far - in L.A. - was in similar conditions. Can the young Spanish crew continue to outperform even the most experienced of SailGP teams and pick up their second win?
Can the U.S.make their first podium?
Taylor Canfield’s United States had an impressive opening day in Abu Dhabi, picking up 9-2-3 results to finish the day in third overall. Canfield is confident the team can make it onto their first podium, but with Abu Dhabi only being the team’s second event, is this ambition out of reach?
Can France turn their fortunes around?
Sitting in 5th overall and just 4 points off the top of the leaderboard, France has the chance to turn around its Season 4 fortunes on the second day of racing in Abu Dhabi. Can driver Quentin Delapierre regain his Season 3 confidence and secure a podium finish?
The Mubadala Abu Dhabi Sail Grand Prix presented by Abu Dhabi Sports Council will resume on January 14 at 2pm GST.
