SailGP, the global racing championship, unveiled the first look of its debut Sail Grand Prix in Valencia at a celebratory event in the city today, Monday March 23.
The Rolex SailGP Championship – known as the most exciting racing on water – will make its debut at Valencia’s iconic marina waterfront in September 5-6, 2026, after four successful years in Cádiz.
SailGP CEO and co-founder Sir Russell Coutts and members of Los Gallos SailGP Team were welcomed by local dignitaries, including the Valencia Mayor Maria José Catalá, President of the Provincial Council of Valencia, Vicent Mompó, and President of the Generalitat Juanfran Pérez Llorca at a special event at the city’s marina to celebrate SailGP’s arrival into Valencia.
Los Gallos driver Diego Botín, strategist Nicole Van der Velden and wing trimmer Florian Trittel, surveyed the marina which will house the course where they will look to secure a big win in front of their home supporters.
Around 10,000 ticketed fans are expected across the race weekend where they will enjoy a mix of high octane racing along with world class food, drink and entertainment.
SailGP CEO and co-founder 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, close-to-shore racing. When we look at the cities that make up the Rolex SailGP Championship, Valencia doesn’t just belong on that list, it elevates it.
“This year’s event marks the start of a three-season commitment, an opportunity to build a real cornerstone event with lasting impact. We thank our partner authorities and institutions in Valencia for their support.”
Los Gallos SailGP Team driver Diego Botín said: “Having a home event is always very exciting and gives us an extra boost. To have our event today almost in front of the racecourse gave me goosebumps. We are really looking forward to racing at our new home venue in Valencia. Can’t wait to race here in September.”
València’s Mayor, María José Catalá said: “Valencia is a city open to the sea, to sport and to the world. A city also in which talent, innovation and technology form an essential part of our city agenda. And if there is one competition, one sporting spectacle, that brings together in its essence those factors: sea, sport, technology, innovation, talent and global projection, that is SailGP. We are delighted to welcome this competition to Valencia in September. The world of sailing will see a city that is passionate about sport, supporting it and generating a special atmosphere.”
President of the Provincial Council of Valencia, Vicent Mompó said: “The arrival of the Rolex SailGP Championship will place Valencia at the epicenter of international sailing. We understand this event is not only a sporting spectacle, but an opportunity for the entire province. Prestigious international events such as SailGP support opportunities for the inland towns. It grows in economic activity and collective pride for our regions. That is, without a doubt, the true meaning of our commitment: to transform each major event into a driver of development for the entire province.”
President of the Generalitat, Juanfran Pérez Llorca said: “SailGP is a great opportunity to continue boosting the sports-related industry in the Valencian Community, as our region is well-equipped for these projects with the necessary infrastructure, talent, and a committed business and community network.”
Knuckles
The modern game was born at a school in Warwickshire – Rugby’s most widely accepted origin takes us back to 1839, where a Warwickshire Rugby School student, William Webb Ellis, came up with the game by picking up a regular football and charging at the opposing team’s goal. A formal set of rules would be made later that year. Also, another interesting fact about rugby for you – the Rugby World Cup trophy is called the William Webb Ellis trophy after the man who invented the game!
Tart Voodoo
On the morning of 11/11/11 South Africa needed 111 runs to win at 11:11 – South Africa vs Australia. This coincidence occurred during the first Test between South Africa and Australia at Cape Town. At 11:11, on 11/11/11, South Africa were 125 for 1 needing a further 111 runs for a win.