Sail Talk with Santi Lange
- SAIL TALK - Sail Talk - 52 Super Series
Sail Talk with Santi Lange

Santiago Lange is much more than just a famous name in the sailing world: he is a symbol of perseverance, passion and renewal. An Argentinian, with a degree in yacht design from Southampton, a two-time Olympic medallist and an award-winning sailor, Santi has consistently transformed challenges into extraordinary achievements. His story is an inspirational one that transcends the boundaries of the sport. Lange's Olympic career spans from Seoul 1988 to Rio 2016, where, at almost 55 years of age, he achieved the remarkable feat of winning gold in the mixed Nacra catamaran class, with Cecilia Carranza at the bow, just months after undergoing major lung surgery to remove a tumour. In what is perhaps a unique case in history, two of his sons, Yago and Klaus, were also competing at the Rio Olympics, representing Argentina in the 49er class. When receiving the Rolex World Sailor of the Year award, he emphasised that there were two winners of the Olympic gold medal, symbolically sharing the honour with Cecilia Carranza. “Santi” also has ties to the YCCS, having been the tactician for the TP52 Azzurra in 2018 and 2019. 

He is currently part of the Provezza team competing in the 52 Super Series, and was in Porto Cervo in this capacity.

Santi, you’re in Porto Cervo for the final leg of the 52 Super Series, back on board rather than coaching. Which of the two roles do you prefer?
It’s all fun. The truth is that I was learning to be a coach, which was wonderful, and now I'm learning to be a flying crew member and strategist, mainly to support my friend Cole (Parada), who is the tactician. He was my coach for many years (including for the Olympic gold medal win in Rio - Ed.) and now we’ve switched roles. Being able to help Cole is a pleasure.

Will you continue in the 52 Super Series circuit with Provezza next year?
I'd like to, let's see what the team decides and whether I'll be on board or on the dinghy as coach. Every role in sailing is interesting and enjoyable.

What other sailing plans do you have for the future?
I have a programme in the USA as helmsman of the TP52 Fox, but I'm also very involved with the Red Bull Sailing Academy, near Trieste. I'm responsible for scouting new Olympic sailors for Red Bull. We often work in Monfalcone, and in October we're holding two training camps. It’s a particularly interesting project for me. I've always been closely connected to Olympic sailing and I really enjoy staying active in this field.

Do you remember the first time you came to Porto Cervo?
Yes, it was for a Sardinia Cup, I think in 1987. I came here with German Frers to race for the Argentine team. German had designed a boat called Daphne, which belonged to him, and was racing on board. I remember we finished prepping the boat at the very last minute. It was a race against time. 

Is it possible that we’ll see you again at the relaunched Sardinia Cup in 2026?
To be honest, I don't know yet. I’d love to, but my sailing schedule is already very full. We'll see, and if it happens, it will be with great pleasure.