Foiling sailboats racing in SailGP

SailGP 2025: Your Complete Guide to the Fastest Racing on Water

SailGP is the pinnacle of high-speed, high-stakes sailing, and we're proud to be the official clothing sponsor for the Germany SailGP Team. Dive into this guide to discover everything about the F50 foiling catamarans, adrenaline-charged races, rival national teams, iconic locations, and the record-breaking speeds that make SailGP the ultimate racing series on water.

An introduction to SailGP

SailGP is redefining the world of competitive sailing. Combining cutting-edge technology, world-class athletes, and iconic venues, this international championship delivers adrenaline-pumping races like no other. 

This season, Helly Hansen is proud to be the official clothing sponsor for Germany SailGP Team as they compete in this global sailing championship that pits national teams against one another in a display of speed, strategy, and skill.

The competition features F50 foiling catamarans —high-performance boats capable of reaching speeds up to 60 mph, four times the speed of the wind. Races are held close to shore, allowing fans an up-close view of the action, with teams battling it out for a share of a $12.8 million prize pool. The highlight of the season is the Grand Final, where the top three teams compete for the ultimate prize: the SailGP trophy and $2 million.

SailGP Germany team racing on the water

The Hydropower Collection

As the official clothing sponsor of the Germany SailGP Team, we are excited to see our Hydropower Collection at work in the high-speed world of SailGP racing.

A Brief History of SailGP

Founded in 2018 by billionaire entrepreneur Larry Ellison and sailing legend Russell Coutts, SailGP was created to transform sailing into a globally recognized, commercially sustainable sport. Inspired by the technology-driven excitement of Formula 1, SailGP introduced one-design F50 catamarans to ensure that victories are determined by skill, not resources.

Over the years, the league has grown to include more teams, iconic venues, and a commitment to sustainability through its Impact League, a parallel competition rewarding teams for environmental innovation.

Germany SailGP Team’s F50 catamaran is craned back to the technical area
Germany SailGP Team’s F50 catamaran is craned back to the technical area after racing on Race Day 1 of the Mubadala New York Sail Grand Prix in New York, USA. Saturday 22nd June 2024. Copyright: Ricardo Pinto for SailGP

2025 Host Cities & key dates

The 2025 SailGP season promises a world tour of breathtaking racing locations. Venues include:

  1. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    Dates: November 23–24, 2024
    Event: Emirates Dubai Sail Grand Prix presented by P&O Marinas
    Details: The season kicks off in Dubai, offering a blend of modernity and maritime tradition.

  2. Auckland, New Zealand
    Dates: January 18–19, 2025
    Event: ITM New Zealand Sail Grand Prix | Auckland
    Details: SailGP's debut in Auckland, known as the "City of Sails", promises dynamic racing close to the city center.

  3. Sydney, Australia
    Dates: February 8–9, 2025
    Event: KPMG Australia Sail Grand Prix | Sydney
    Details: Returning to the iconic Sydney Harbour, a favorite among fans and sailors alike.

  4. Los Angeles, United States
    Dates: March 15–16, 2025
    Event: Los Angeles Sail Grand Prix
    Details: SailGP's inaugural event in Los Angeles, expanding its U.S. presence.

  5. San Francisco, United States
    Dates: March 22–23, 2025
    Event: San Francisco Sail Grand Prix
    Details: A return to the challenging conditions of San Francisco Bay.

  6. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
    Dates: May 3–4, 2025
    Event: Enel Rio Sail Grand Prix
    Details: SailGP's first venture into South America, racing in the iconic Guanabara Bay.

  7. New York City, United States
    Dates: June 7–8, 2025
    Event: Mubadala New York Sail Grand Prix
    Details: The fleet competes against the backdrop of Manhattan's skyline.

  8. Portsmouth, Great Britain
    Dates: July 19–20, 2025
    Event: Great Britain Sail Grand Prix | Portsmouth
    Details: A return to British waters, with enthusiastic local support.

  9. Sassnitz, Germany
    Dates: August 16–17, 2025
    Event: Germany Sail Grand Prix | Sassnitz
    Details: Germany's debut in SailGP, hosted in the coastal town of Sassnitz. Helly Hansen is proud to be the official clothing sponsor of the Germany SailGP Team, supporting their journey on this thrilling global stage.

  10. Taranto, Italy
    Dates: September 6–7, 2025
    Event: ROCKWOOL Italy Sail Grand Prix | Taranto
    Details: Returning to the historic port city in southern Italy.

  11. Geneva, Switzerland
    Dates: September 20–21, 2025
    Event: Rolex Switzerland Sail Grand Prix | Geneva
    Details: A new venue, bringing high-speed sailing to Lake Geneva.

  12. Cádiz, Spain
    Dates: October 4–5, 2025
    Event: Spain Sail Grand Prix | Andalucía–Cádiz
    Details: The fleet returns to the Andalusian coast for thrilling races.

  13. Middle East (Location TBA)
    Dates: November 7–8, 2025
    Event: To be announced
    Details: An additional Middle Eastern event, with details forthcoming.

  14. Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
    Dates: November 29–30, 2025
    Event: Mubadala Abu Dhabi Sail Grand Prix Season Grand Final
    Details: The season concludes in Abu Dhabi, determining the 2024–2025 champion.

Please note that while some venues have been confirmed, specific details for certain events are still pending. For the most up-to-date information, it's advisable to check the official SailGP website or recent announcements.

foiling sailing boats racing
Germany SailGP Team helmed by Erik Heil leads Canada NorthStar SailGP Team helmed by Giles Scott and New Zealand SailGP Team helmed by Peter Burling as they pass spectators in Nikki Beach on Race Day 2 of the Emirates Dubai Sail Grand Prix presented by P&O Marinas in Dubai, UAE. Sunday 24 November 2024. Copyright: Andrew Baker for SailGP

The Rules of SailGP

SailGP’s format keeps the action fast and intense by design:

  • Fleet Races: Each event features six short races over two days. Teams earn points based on their finishing position, with the top three advancing to a match race final.
  • Season Scoring: Points accumulate across the season. The three highest-ranked teams qualify for the Grand Final.
  • Identical Boats: All teams compete on the same F50 catamarans, ensuring equal technological footing.
  • Safety First: New rules penalize collisions and unsafe maneuvers, emphasizing skillful sailing.
Germany SailGP Team racing in their F50 catamaran
Emirates Great Britain SailGP Team cross the finish line ahead of Mubadala Brazil SailGP Team, USA SailGP Team and Germany SailGP Team presented by Deutsche Bank in front of the grandstand of spectators on Race Day 2 of The Rolex SailGP 2025 Championship ITM New Zealand Sail Grand Prix in Auckland, New Zealand. Sunday 19 January 2025. Copyright: Bob Martin for SailGP

The Teams

The SailGP 2025 season showcases 12 national teams with unique sailing styles and competitive spirit. From championship-winning veterans to ambitious newcomers, these teams will battle across global venues in identical F50 catamarans. With world-class sailors at the helm and advanced tactics on display, the competition promises to be fierce. Here’s a closer look at the teams:

  • Australia SailGP Team: Led by Tom Slingsby, Australia is a dominant force in SailGP, known for their exceptional teamwork and consistent podium finishes.
  • Mubadala Brazil SailGP Team: Making their debut, the Brazilian team, helmed by two-time Olympic champion Martine Grael, aims to make an immediate impact.
  • Canada SailGP Team: Under the leadership of Phil Robertson, the Canadian team combines experience and emerging talent to climb the ranks.
  • ROCKWOOL Denmark SailGP Team: With Nicolai Sehested at the helm, the Danish team focuses on leveraging innovative tactics and solid crew coordination.
  • Emirates Great Britain SailGP Team: Skippered by Dylan Fletcher, the British team brings Olympic-level expertise and a reputation for resilience on the water.
  • France SailGP Team: Helmed by Quentin Delapierre, the French team blends precision sailing and tactical acumen to aim for top spots.
  • Germany SailGP Team: A new addition to the fleet, Germany, led by Erik Heil, looks to establish itself as a formidable competitor. We're excited to be along for the ride as the team's official clothing sponsor.
  • Red Bull Italy SailGP Team: Ruggero Tita, an Olympic gold medalist, leads the Italian team with high expectations for strong performances.
  • New Zealand SailGP Team: Helmed by Peter Burling, the Kiwis are known for their tactical brilliance and championship pedigree.
  • Spain SailGP Team: Reigning champions under Diego Botín, Spain is eager to defend its title against a strengthened fleet.
  • Switzerland SailGP Team: Skippered by Sébastien Schneiter, the Swiss team continues to refine its performance in pursuit of better results.
  • United States SailGP Team: Now led by Taylor Canfield, the American team combines experience and home advantage to target key victories.

Competing in identical F50 catamarans, the teams will rely on strategic brilliance and teamwork to outperform their rivals on the global stage.

Germany SailGP Team helmed by Erik Heil round a marker on Race Day 2 of The Rolex SailGP 2025 Championship ITM New Zealand Sail Grand Prix in Auckland, New Zealand.
Germany SailGP Team helmed by Erik Heil round a marker on Race Day 2 of The Rolex SailGP 2025 Championship ITM New Zealand Sail Grand Prix in Auckland, New Zealand. Sunday 19 January 2025. Copyright: Bob Martin for SailGP

The Boats

The F50 catamaran is a marvel of engineering, designed to achieve record-breaking speeds and precise control. At the heart of its performance is its hydrofoiling system, which uses foils that lift the boat above the water, drastically reducing drag and allowing speeds up to 60 mph. 

The wing sail, which functions similarly to an airplane wing, can be adjusted using different configurations (18m, 24m, or 29m) depending on wind conditions, maximizing efficiency in diverse weather. 

Interchangeable daggerboards and rudders enhance versatility, ensuring stability even at extreme speeds. The onboard systems use advanced sensors that monitor performance metrics in real-time, providing crucial data to the crew and analysts that allow them to optimize performance through insights into wind patterns and boat positioning—turning the F50 into a technological powerhouse of competitive sailing.

Boats racing at the SailGP 2025 Championship ITM New Zealand Sail Grand Prix in Auckland, New Zealand.
Germany SailGP Team helmed by Erik Heil, Canada NorthStar SailGP Team helmed by Giles Scott, USA SailGP Team helmed by Taylor Canfield, and ROCKWOOL Denmark SailGP Team helmed by Nicolai Sehested sail in front of spectators at the SailGP Race Stadium on Race Day 1 of The Rolex SailGP 2025 Championship ITM New Zealand Sail Grand Prix in Auckland, New Zealand. Saturday 18 January 2025. Copyright: Felix Diemer for SailGP

How to watch

SailGP’s innovative approach extends to its broadcasts, making it easy for fans to follow the action:

  • Live Streams: Available on SailGP’s official website and app.
  • Television Coverage: Broadcasts through major networks, depending on your region.
  • On-Site Viewing: Many venues offer grandstands and VIP experiences for fans to witness the races up close.
  • SailGP Insights: An online dashboard which provides fans with huge amounts of real-time race data and live broadcast videos.
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