Shocking scenes unfolded on Friday when five members of a US sailing team fell overboard after their boat lost control and capsized.
The moment happened during the third fleet race on practice day for the Apex Group Bermuda Sail Grand Prix. The flipping of the upper wing caused the boat to flip.
🚨BREAKING NEWS: Video shows the U.S. sailing team ejected overboard after the boat hits heavy turbulence and capsizes.
No serious injuries were reported.
— Breaking news (@TheBreakingRprt) May 6, 2024
None of the crew members fell from their seats. There were no injuries to the sailors involved.
The U.S. SailGP team and driver Taylor Canfield compete during day two of the 2024 SailGP race at Sydney Harbour, Sydney, Australia, February 25, 2024. (Andy Cheung/Getty Images)
An investigation revealed that wing trimmer Victor Diaz de Leon pressed the button with the intention of flattening the wing. Instead, he accidentally presses the flip button, causing his boat to flip over.
“While operating the wing, I selected the wrong function on the control panel and the boat flipped over. It was very scary and I am thankful that all my teammates were safe.” said Diaz de Leon.
The U.S. SailGP team (left) races against the Danish SailGP team during the second day of racing at the Sail Grand Prix event in Sydney Harbor on February 25, 2024. (DAVID GRAY/AFP via Getty Images)
Although no sailors were injured in the incident, the same cannot be said for the F50 sailing vessel. The boat suffered extensive damage and was eliminated from the official competition in Bermuda.
