Christoph's role
Date of Birth: December 12, 1968
Birthplace: Braunschweig, Germany
Nationality: German
Position: Structural design – Senior FEA analyst
Christoph is one of ORACLE Racing’s longest-tenured designers. A member of the team since 2004, Christoph was part of the group that designed the wingsail that powered USA 17 to victory in the 33rd America’s Cup.
For the 344tj Cup, he is responsible for structural analysis and design, from initial concept through to production. “My primary focus is on making things as light as possible, but strong enough to stand up under the rigorous conditions.”
Christoph joined ORACLE Racing after a stint at BMW, where he was the team manager for lightweight construction strategy of the small BMW car series. In another project, he was in charge of virtual testing on crash/pedestrian safety for the re-designed MINI Cooper. “After that I got asked to join ORACLE Racing as a structural engineer, which I found hard to refuse,” says Christoph.
Christoph’s fascination with lightweight engineering extends beyond the sailing and automotive industries. As a student at Stuttgart University, where he studied aeronautical engineering, he was involved in the European space shuttle program, simulating mission re-entry. “For me it was a very exciting first work experience as a young student with all the language challenges and cultural differences that came along with it,” says Christoph. “The mix of cultures is what I like about the international teams we have in the America's Cup.”
Christoph’s parents took him on his first sail at the age of 3, and he’s been an avid sailor and windsurfer throughout his adult life. But it was a chance opportunity at the end of one project that continues to drive his fire. “Doing cool stuff with highly motivated and skilled people is very rewarding,” says Christoph. “The loop from idea to realization is very short and offers an opportunity to learn a lot in a very short time.”
Career Highlights
2010: 33rd America’s Cup, ORACLE Racing, winner
2004-07: ORACLE Racing, design team member
2001-04: Getting the new MINI Cooper on the road with BMW
1995-2001: Engineering consulting work in automotive, air and spacecraft industries