Delapierre stays defiant after injury blow rocks France in Bermuda

DS Automobiles Team France suffered another brutal setback at the Apex Group Bermuda Sail Grand Prix as stand-in wing trimmer Glenn Ashby was ruled out after breaking his ankle.

The incident unfolded during a difficult opening day for Quentin Delapierre’s crew, adding to what has already been a challenging 2026 Season for the French team following their major crash with the Black Foils in Auckland earlier this year.

“It’s tough to see Glenn fall onto the trampoline and break his ankle,” Delapierre said afterwards. “That’s tough to watch. I hope it’s not more serious.”

Despite the latest blow, the French driver was determined to focus on the road ahead rather than dwell on the team’s misfortune.

“This is how it goes sometimes and now we need to look forward and try to find solutions to have a better day tomorrow and for the rest of the season,” he said.

With Ashby sidelined, BONDS Flying Roos reserve athlete Tom Needham stepped in for the final fleet race of the day, earning praise from Delapierre after helping the team stay competitive in difficult circumstances.

“I think Tom did an incredible job, honestly,” he said. “Everyone on board was really impressed with what Tom delivered in that fourth race.

“We’re really lucky to have him on board.”

Needham won't be racing with France on Super Sunday - instead they've secured an emergency loan from Artemis in the form of their reserve athlete Dave Gilmour.

France’s season has repeatedly been disrupted by injuries and setbacks, and Delapierre admitted the latest incident felt like another painful chapter in a frustrating campaign.

“It’s hard for the whole team because it feels like we can’t get out of this cycle at the moment,” he said.

Still, the team is refusing to throw in the towel.

“After this Grand Prix, I think we’ll have some big meetings and try to reset the strategy for the rest of the season,” Delapierre added. “We just have to take it as it is and keep moving forward.”