Returning to the shores of Portsmouth on July 25 and 26, the exhilarating SailGP 2026 will treat the crowds to a weekend of adrenaline-pumping racing, live music from chart-topping artists, and much more. Think of it as a spectacular fusion of festival and sporting event, with a boatload of competitive thrills and entertainment. And it’s all just 90 minutes from London!
What exactly is SailGP?
Picture world-class athletes fuelled by the wind and waves, competing in short, intense races on the water. Thirteen national teams (Great Britain, USA, New Zealand, Spain, Brazil, Italy, Canada, Australia, Denmark, Germany, France, Switzerland and Sweden) will race on identical high-tech F50 hydrofoiling catamarans, including the .2025 season champions, and the Emirates Great Britain home team who will be back on the waves this year.
In case you’re wondering, hydrofoils are a revolutionary feature similar to aircraft wings, which use speed to generate lift, raising the boat out of the water and therefore reducing drag. This means the SailGP F50’s can reach epic speeds of well over 60 mph.
There are six to eight races at each of the two-day events, with 13 stops overall, held at iconic venues around the world. Each team’s ranking will determine the amount of season points they get, culminating in a Grand Final where the top three go head-to-head in a winner-takes-all race. The races unfold a stone’s throw from the shore, with stadium-style grandstands right on the waterside so you can have a front row seat for every second of the action.
What can you expect at SailGP 2026?
Last year’s Emirates Great Britain Sail Grand Prix saw the best in the world battle it out, with New Zealand’s ‘Black Foils’ team emerging victorious. The rival teams will be back for another round very soon, keeping fans on the edge of their seats as they carve a speedy path through Portsmouth’s unpredictable waters to cross the finish line first. These whirlwind races are perfect for those who love the thrill of the chase, heart-in-your-mouth close calls and the chance to see talented athletes, including Olympic gold medallists, do what they do best.
Plus, you can further elevate your experience by choosing Premium Waterfront Grandstand seats, newly added this year and designed for fans looking for added comfort, superior views, and enhanced hospitality throughout the races. Alternatively, the Vela Beach Club experience guarantees the best race views, chic lounge spaces, exceptional service, and a top-notch social atmosphere.
What kind of entertainment is there?
That’s not all. Also included in your day ticket is some unmissable Aprés-Sail entertainment that will feel like you’ve stumbled into a festival. Post-race, you will be able to dance off your race-fueled excitement and sing your heart out, with Jess Glynne taking to the stage on Saturday and Craig David on Sunday; you are promised some epic, high-energy performances that will keep the good times going well into the night.
There’s also the chance to get stuck into a variety of fun activities, and a tempting selection of irresistible food and refreshing drinks to fuel your celebrations (or ease your commiserations).
It’s not every day you can see athletes harness the power of nature to claim victory. Plus, SailGP combines speedy spectacle with sustainability – with a second leaderboard known as the ‘Impact League’ which rewards teams who take steps to protect the planet. Yet another reason why the SailGP should be top of your list of things to do this summer, but you’ll want to grab tickets sharpish, as they can sell out quickly.
