Last week's regatta was anything but smooth sailing for Pierre Casiraghi. The Monaco royal and his team, Malizia, found themselves in a dangerous situation when their boat capsized following a collision with a press boat during the GC32 Mediterranean circuit in Malcesine, Italy on Friday.
The accident occurred when the press vessel cut across the path of Pierre's GC32, causing it to overturn. Thankfully no-one was injured in the accident, although Malizia's vessel sustained "extensive technical damage".
Pierre Casiraghi: 'An accident like this should never be able to happen'
"It's such a shame but also very annoying," Pierre, 28, said in a statement. "An accident like this should never be able to happen."
Princess Caroline's son went on to state that there should be a safe distance maintained between all boats to ensure the safety of the crew, and those watching. "The GC32s are ultra-fast boats and it's essential that safety perimeters are respected by both accredited and spectator boats," he said. "This is a new generation of boat and security procedures have to take account of their high speeds."
Pierre continued, "There needs to be a general raising of awareness, among organisers, competitors and pleasure boat users. It's important for the smooth-running of races and the future of our sport."
Team Malizia later shared a before and after photo of the incident
The team took their Instagram account on Tuesday to share photos from the incident, showing images of the boat before and after the media vessel cut them up. The caption read: "Rib in the middle of the race course an instant before the crash and Malizia a second after. Its crazy this guy is driving towards us! We are happy no one got hurt!!! Hope this wont happen again on the tour! Congrats to @teamtiltsailing for the win in malcesine!"
While the team was out of action for the remainder of the weekend, they are hoping to compete in the third stage taking place in Palma, Spain, August 3 through August 6.
© Photo: InstagramPierre has described taking part in the GC32 regattas as 'a dream come true'
The accident came just two months after Malizia participated in their first official GC32 regatta. At the time, Beatrice Borromeo's husband said: "To race against such famous teams is a dream come true. I think the class is very attractive. The boat is super quick and aggressive which I love.
"For this first regatta it was important for us to test the boat, break-in the crew and above all see how we measured up against other teams," he added. "Obviously we have to improve, particularly on some of the maneuvers, but I want to thank all the team most sincerely for their commitment and what has been a great start."
