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SailGP Valencia Debut Set For September 2026 Race

24th March 2026
Foil Frenzy: United States SailGP Team led by Taylor Canfield races ahead of Denmark, France, NorthStar, Germany and Great Britain
Foil Frenzy: United States SailGP Team led by Taylor Canfield races ahead of Denmark, France, NorthStar, Germany and Great Britain Credit: Ricardo Pinto for SailGP

SailGP has unveiled its first Valencia Grand Prix, set for September 5-6, 2026. The global racing series will stage the event at the city’s marina waterfront after four years in Cádiz. The announcement was made at a launch event in Valencia attended by SailGP CEO Sir Russell Coutts and local political leaders. Spain’s Los Gallos team members were also present.

Around 10,000 spectators are expected across the race weekend. Organisers say the event will combine close-to-shore racing with entertainment and hospitality.

Sir Russell Coutts said, “Valencia is exactly the kind of city SailGP was built for. A world-class city with a passionate sporting culture and a waterfront made for fast-paced racing.” He added that the event marks the start of a three-season commitment. “It is an opportunity to build a cornerstone event with lasting impact,” he said.

SailGP officials unveil Valencia race stadium ahead of September 2026 debutSailGP officials unveil Valencia race stadium ahead of September 2026 debut

Spanish driver Diego Botín said hosting a home event would provide an extra boost. “We are really looking forward to racing at our new home venue in Valencia,” he said. Valencia Mayor María José Catalá said the event aligns with the city’s focus on sport and innovation. “We are delighted to welcome this competition to Valencia,” she said.

Provincial Council President Vicent Mompó said the event would support economic activity across the region. He described it as an opportunity for development beyond the city. Regional President Juanfran Pérez Llorca said the event would strengthen the sports industry in the Valencian Community.

Tickets for the Spain Sail Grand Prix in Valencia are now on sale.

Published in SailGP
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About SailGP

SailGP unites world-class athletic talent and cutting-edge technology. Eight teams representing Australia, Denmark, France, Great Britain, Japan, New Zealand, Spain and the United States will contest eight events held in as many countries over an 11-month period. Following the season opener in Bermuda, the championship visits renowned sailing locations in Italy, the United Kingdom, Denmark, France, Spain and New Zealand. San Francisco, United States, has the honour of closing proceedings with the Grand Final on 26–27 March 2022. Among those vying for the crown is the Great Britain team led by Rolex Testimonee and four-time Rolex World Sailor of the Year, Sir Ben Ainslie, who says: “The sailing world was crying out for the creation of such a concept. SailGP is a major milestone in the evolution of yachting, but it also represents continuity. The combination of state-of-the-art technology and sporting prowess is widening the appeal of sailing.