Alberto Bona joins our team as co-skipper. Welcome Albi!

Alberto Bona joins Team Frankie as Co-Skipper and Sailing Performance Manager

© Eloi Stichelbaut | 11th Hour Racing

Super stoked to announce that Italian offshore sailor Alberto Bona has joined our team as Co-Skipper and Sailing Performance Manager, strengthening the technical and sporting leadership of the campaign.

Albi’s appointment brings deep offshore solo experience and a shared performance-driven mindset to Team Francesca Clapcich. The Italian offshore specialist will work closely with Francesca and Technical Director Pifou Dargnies (FRA) on sailing performance, race preparation, and technical optimization.

Albi is one of Italy’s most accomplished offshore sailors of his generation, with experience across the Class40, Figaro, and Mini 6.50 Classes. A Class40 World Champion and a proven transatlantic racer, he is known for combining sharp race instincts with a methodical, data-driven approach to performance. 

“What attracted me to Francesca’s team is the balance between ambition and purpose,” said Alberto. “There’s a long-term sporting goal with a strong focus on doing things the right way every day - for people and for the planet. Francesca leads the team with determination, intelligence, and a real openness to learning. I’m excited to contribute my experience and work alongside the whole team to push the level of performance step by step,” he commented.

“Alberto brings a rare combination of offshore instinct, technical understanding, and calm leadership,” said Francesca. “We’ve raced against each other, we’ve shared ideas over the years, and I trust the way he thinks. He knows what it takes to push performance without losing sight of reliability, and that balance is exactly what I need as a co-skipper.”