Sailing: New Zealand left with destroyed wing in frightening end to SailGP opening day in Saint Tropez

Disaster has struck New Zealand's bid at the French leg of SailGP in Saint Tropez, as the wing of the Kiwi boat collapsed at the conclusion of racing.

As the action stopped on the opening day, with New Zealand second on the standings after taking the spoils in the opener, and settling for sixth and fifth place in the respective second and third races.

However, in terrifying scenes, the Kiwis' wing disintegrated at the end of race three, with New Zealand's Blair Tuke stating it will mean curtains for any chance of returning to the water on Sunday (NZ time). 

"[It's] not the worst outcome," said Blair Tuke. "The worst outcome would have been if someone got injured. I'm just really glad that everyone's ok.

"That's going to put us out for tomorrow, and we'll have to try and bounce back in Taranto."

Fortunately, no members of the New Zealand team were hurt in the incident. 

"Following the final race on the opening day of the France Sail Grand Prix in Saint-Tropez, New Zealand's wing collapsed," SailGP said in a statement. 

"No injuries were sustained and damage to the boat is currently being assessed. Further details will be provided as soon as they become available."

"A full salvage operation took place to ensure all debris was removed from the water."

While second on the standings, New Zealand were level on points with Denmark, who held onto first place due to a higher finish in race three.

After the first two legs of season four of SailGP, New Zealand sit fifth with 14 points, just three off leaders Australia.

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