Double gold Olympic champion returns to Grandson for a new challenge with SSL Team Australia
The Star Sailors League Summer Camp 2025 is officially underway, and among the first sailors to arrive in Grandson, Switzerland, is Matt Wearn — double Olympic gold medallist in the ILCA 7 class and now the skipper of SSL Team Australia.
After a few years away, Wearn is back, and this time, he’s more focused than ever:
“It’s great to be back in Grandson. I think it’s been about four years since I last sailed here, so it’s really nice to return, reconnect with the team, and get back on the water learning to sail the SSL47s again.”
A second shot at the Star Sailors League
Wearn has already had a taste of the SSL Gold Cup, but this time the team is planning things differently — with more preparation, intention, and strategy.
“Last time we had a good team, but everything felt a bit rushed in the end. This time we really want to give it a proper go. With John on board and Paul McKenzie organizing the squad and helping select the crew, it’s really exciting. We’re hoping that solid training puts us in a strong position to compete well.”
From solo racing to skipper
Coming from the single-handed ILCA 7, Wearn is embracing a very different kind of sailing now — leading a crew-based campaign on a 47-foot yacht.
“The biggest shift is definitely moving into a team environment. It’s really different from what I’m used to, but I’m enjoying being more involved in the management side — picking the team, shaping how we work together. I’m looking forward to finding those challenges and solving them as a group.”
Wearn also shared his thoughts on the crew’s character:
“It’s a younger team overall, which is great. There’s a lot of energy and motivation. Many of them are on Olympic pathways or have already been to the Games, so there’s a ton of skill on board. But we’ve also got some experienced heads to keep us grounded. I think it’s going to be a fun, fast, and focused group.”
Eyes on the racing
With the summer camp attracting elite teams from all over the world, the level of competition is only rising. But Wearn is ready for it:
“The competition is strong, for sure. But that’s what makes it exciting. We’re here to give it everything.”
Australia is back
With Matt Wearn at the helm, Paul McKenzie coaching, and a talented mix of young and experienced sailors on board, SSL Team Australia is shaping up to be a serious contender in the Star Sailors League Gold Cup 2026.