SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Jan. 22, 2025 – X-Yachts, the renowned Danish yacht builder, is making waves in the sailing world with the announcement of their ambitious 2025 racing program. The program will feature the cutting-edge XR 41 yacht, skippered by none other than world-champion yachtsman Jesper Radich. This dynamic partnership promises to push the boundaries of performance and innovation in the competitive world of offshore sailing.
X-Yachts Racing Team: A Fusion of Experience and Youth
For the 2025 season, X-Yachts is assembling a formidable racing team comprised of seasoned professionals and promising young talents. This initiative underscores X-Yachts' commitment to nurturing the next generation of sailors while simultaneously pushing the limits of the XR 41.
“We are very excited about partnering with Jesper,” says Kræn B. Nielsen, CEO of X-Yachts. “From the very beginning of the XR-project, we have collaborated with some of the brightest minds in the industry. It is only natural to continue this path in both development and in actual racing.”
Jesper Radich: A Skipper with a Vision
Jesper Radich, a celebrated figure in the sailing world, brings a wealth of experience and a unique approach to team leadership. His focus on team development, strategic planning, and cultivating a winning mindset is set to create a high-performing and cohesive crew.
“This project touches on many important points of how I like to work with a sailing team,” Radich explains. “Our focus will be on team development, stepping stones, and mindset. By separating process and performance from outcome and concentrating on technical improvement and crew skills, results will follow as a consequence.”
A Call to Young Sailing Talents
X-Yachts is extending an invitation to aspiring sailors aged 18 to 35 to join their racing team. This is a golden opportunity for young talents to hone their skills alongside seasoned professionals and compete at the highest level of offshore sailing.
"My role will be to ensure we develop as a team on all positions, and when in full race mode the boat goes fast in the right direction. Yacht racing is largely a concerted team effort. To achieve this, we are looking for a diverse mix of power, trimming skills, courage and analytical minds.” Radich elaborates.
The selection trials are scheduled for October 9-10, and interested sailors are encouraged to apply. X-Yachts will be releasing details about the application process soon.
A Challenging and Prestigious Race Schedule
The X-Yachts racing team is gearing up for a challenging calendar of prestigious events, including:
- Mai Offshore Regatta (Maior) in Kiel
- Kieler Woche
- Gotland Runt
- ORC World Championship in Tallinn
- Fyn Rundt
These races will test the team's skills and the capabilities of the XR 41 against top international competition.
About the XR 41: A Blend of Performance and Innovation
The XR 41 is a testament to X-Yachts' commitment to pushing the boundaries of yacht design. It is a high-performance sailing machine designed to excel in both racing and cruising. The yacht boasts a sleek and modern hull form, a powerful sail plan, and a meticulously engineered deck layout.
About X-Yachts: A Legacy of Excellence
Founded in 1979, X-Yachts has earned a reputation for producing high-quality sailing yachts that combine exceptional performance with luxurious comfort. The company's dedication to craftsmanship and innovation has made it a leading name in the yachting industry.
About Jesper Radich: A World-Class Sailor
Jesper Radich is a highly accomplished Danish sailor with a string of victories to his name, including the World Match Racing Tour and numerous European and World Championships. His expertise and leadership are invaluable assets to the X-Yachts racing program.