Taylor Canfield is back at the helm. The United States SailGP team has confirmed its regular driver will return to steer the American F50 for next week's Emirates Dubai Sail Grand Prix, ending a short run of uncertainty over who would take the wheel.
Canfield missed the Geneva event through injury, with former Brazil driver Martine Grael stepping in to cover. His return comes at a pivotal moment for the team.
The U.S. are chasing the final berth in the Grand Final in Abu Dhabi, with just two events remaining before the season is decided and the qualification picture still wide open.
Artemis currently sit third, the United States fourth, and Emirates GBR fifth. Only six points separate the three teams, which means every race in Dubai matters for the Americans as they fight to keep their Grand Final hopes alive heading into the final showdown in Abu Dhabi.
The confirmation comes just days after Dubai's crew lists were released, with the United States notably absent a named driver at the time, fuelling speculation about the team's line-up heading into the event.
Canfield's injury in September was compounded by news that reserve driver Harry Melges was also unavailable, sidelined by an injury of his own. SailGP boss Russell Coutts called the situation a "wake-up call" for the league, urging teams to build more depth into their squads rather than rely on a single driver.
The Emirates Dubai Sail Grand Prix runs 21-22 November, setting up the championship-deciding Mubadala Abu Dhabi Sail Grand Prix 2026 Season Grand Final on 28-29 November. For the Americans, Canfield's return is about more than filling a seat, it is a chance to steady a campaign that cannot afford another setback.
