The 35-year-old from Zurich has signed a contract with the Italian team. +39 sports director Luca Devoti is happy about the latest signing: "We are proud to have such an experienced America's Cup sailor in our team with Christian Scherrer!"
After all, Scherrer already has three full AC campaigns behind him, first with One Australia (1994-1995), then with the Swiss team FAST 2000 (1998-2000) and finally with the successful Team Alinghi (2001-2003).
For now, the Swiss is looking forward to his new job on board +39, where he will not only contribute his skills as a genoa trimmer, but also work in the sail design team. The trained sailmaker has already gained a lot of experience in development at Alinghi.
Why the switch from Alinghi to +39? Christian Scherrer told YACHT: "Alinghi has become much bigger and more international with the second campaign. The Swiss team is no longer an issue for me. I'm now looking forward to a real challenge with the Italians again." Another motivation for Scherrer: "As a defender, Alinghi will contest a maximum of nine heats in the final. With +39, on the other hand, I can sail the entire Challenger series!"
+39 will start two-boat training off Valencia at the beginning of April. Sports Director Luca Devoti recently announced the collaboration with German-Polish match race ace Karol Jablonski. Jablonski will share the skipper position with Brit Ian Percy. Other key positions will be filled primarily by successful sailors from the Finn scene.
Michael Good
Editor Test & Technology
