With just under three months until SailGP returns to Bermuda there was a scary reminder of just how dangerous the racing can be in New Zealand this weekend.

A high-speed collision between the home boat and Team France resulted in two sailors needing hospital treatment for injuries sustained in the crash, with Black Foils grinder Louis Sinclair sustaining compound fractures in both legs and described as being in “stable condition”.

Team France strategist Manon Audinet was thrown forward in the collision, breaking the team’s left-side steering wheel in the process. She is being treated for abdominal injuries

The incident occurred at the beginning of race three in Auckland when the Kiwis appeared to lose control of their F50 catamaran at high speed, veering sharply in front of the French. The Black Foils F50 platform collapsed as France’s F50 finished on top of the Kiwis’ hull.

Team France driver Quentin Delapierre had little time to react.

“On the incident itself, I can’t really say anything,” Delapierre said. “Everything happened so quickly — it’s still super cloudy in my head and I haven’t reviewed the footage or spoken to the umpires.

“I want to give my thoughts to the New Zealand team and also to my team-mates as this was tough for everyone on both teams.”

The New Zealand team, who were at the top of the event leaderboard at the time, were docked eight penalty points for their part in the incident.

The SailGP Auckland Grand Prix was won by Australia, beating Emirates Great Britain and Spain in the final.

The SailGP Bermuda Grand Prix will take place from May 9 to 10.