SailGP will make its debut in Rio de Janeiro this weekend with racing on Guanabara Bay.
The Enel Rio Sail Grand Prix takes place on April 11–12 as the fourth stop of the 2026 season. More than 8,000 spectators are expected along the shoreline, with racing set against the backdrop of Sugarloaf Mountain. The event marks a home debut for the Mubadala Brazil SailGP Team.
Driver Martine Grael, a two-time Olympic champion, will lead the team on home waters. “It’s a powerful full-circle moment,” organisers said, as Grael returns to the bay where she developed her sailing career. She will race alongside her brother Marco Grael, continuing a family legacy linked to Olympic sailor Torben Grael.
A key rivalry will also unfold on the water. Grael will face former Olympic teammate Kahena Kunze, now racing with ROCKWOOL Racing. The pair won gold together at the Rio 2016 Games.
The United States SailGP Team arrives following a win in Sydney. Driver Taylor Canfield said the team is building momentum after securing its first victory since 2023.
France returns to competition after damage sustained in Auckland. Driver Quentin Delapierre said the team is focused on restarting its campaign.
The 2026 season standings remain tight. Emirates Great Britain leads with 28 points, followed by Australia on 25. The United States and France are tied on 20 points.
SailGP uses identical F50 foiling catamarans to ensure close competition. Events are staged close to shore, with multiple races leading to a three-boat final. Racing begins at 3 pm local time on both days.
