SailGP Brings High-Octane Racing to Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York

SailGP is setting the stage for an exhilarating year in the U.S., a triple-header bookended by landmark events in Los Angeles and New York. These races are not just about speed and strategy; they’re about bringing fans closer to the action, creating a festival-like atmosphere, and making sailing more exciting and accessible than ever. We sat down with Andrew Thompson, Managing Director of SailGP, to dive into what makes these events special and why they’re must-sees for sailing enthusiasts and casual fans alike.

A New Era of Sail Racing

SailGP is redefining competitive sailing with its high-speed foiling catamarans, cutting-edge technology, and stadium-style racing. Unlike traditional sailing regattas, where boats can disappear on the horizon, SailGP events unfold right in front of spectators, providing an up-close and electrifying experience. “Since we began, SailGP set out to provide a year-round, consistent sailing competition that appeals to both traditional sailing fans and broader racing audiences,” said Thompson. “We bring fans closer to the action, with a vibrant race-stadium atmosphere, live entertainment, and a great day out by the water.”

Los Angeles vs. New York: A Tale of Two Iconic Cities

The Rolex Los Angeles Grand Prix and the Mubadala New York Grand Prix each have their own unique flair. Los Angeles, kicking off the U.S. leg of SailGP’s 2025 season, brings together a mix of celebrities, local sailing communities, and a scenic racecourse at the Port of LA. On the other hand, New York’s event is set against the backdrop of the world’s most famous skyline, embodying a ‘go big or go home’ energy.

Both events are designed to be highly accessible. “Both are thrilling, fan-friendly events that showcase the uniqueness of each city,” Thompson added. “In LA, we merge celebrity and community; in New York, it’s all about the spectacle of racing in front of Manhattan.” The global racing championship will also make a return visit to San Francisco (March 22-23, 2025) – racing in front of the stunning backdrop of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Engaging Fans On-Site and at Home

SailGP is pushing the boundaries of fan engagement with technology-driven experiences. For the first time at U.S. events, fans on-site can use augmented reality (AR) via the SailGP App, enhancing their view with live stats and interactive overlays. For those watching from home, SailGP has secured an unprecedented 54 hours of broadcast time on CBS, ensuring that fans across the country won’t miss a second of the action.

“SailGP continues to expand, and so does our athlete and fan experience,” Thompson explained. “This year, we have larger, premium grandstands in LA and an enhanced broadcast experience with our LiveLine technology, which processes over a billion data requests per hour to make the races even more engaging for viewers.”

Sustainability at the Forefront

SailGP is also leading the charge in sustainability, ensuring that its events minimize their environmental impact. Both the Los Angeles and New York events will be powered entirely by clean energy—including HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) in LA and a combination of HVO and the main power grid in New York. These energy sources significantly reduce carbon emissions compared to traditional fuels.

Additionally, fans are encouraged to bring reusable water bottles, with refill stations available at both locations. A comprehensive waste management plan is in place to maximize recycling and composting efforts. “We have sustainability targets for every event,” Thompson noted, “covering waste, water, clean energy, supply chain, transport, and protection of coastal waters.”

A Front-Row Seat to the Action

Each SailGP event is structured to maximize excitement, featuring two days of intense competition. Spectators can watch up to seven full-fleet races before the final three-boat showdown. “This isn’t your grandfather’s sailing where you need binoculars to see boats on the horizon,” Thompson said. “Our teams race in front of grandstands close to shore, putting fans right at the heart of the action.”

Making an Impact in Local Communities

SailGP’s commitment to local communities extends beyond the races themselves. In Los Angeles, the organization is working to provide first responders and wildfire-affected families with free event access. Additionally, both cities will benefit from an economic boost, with last year’s LA event generating an estimated $6.9 million for the local economy.

The SailGP Inspire program is also making waves, having engaged over 22,000 young people in school visits, sailing experiences, and career pathway opportunities. “We partner with local communities for impactful projects,” Thompson said. “We want to leave a lasting positive footprint wherever we race.”

Don’t Miss Out

With high-speed action, world-class athletes, and a commitment to sustainability and community impact, SailGP’s U.S. events in Los Angeles, San Francisco and New York events promise to be unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a lifelong sailing fan or a newcomer to the sport, this is your chance to witness the future of sailing up close.

TICKETS FOR UPCOMING EVENTS

Enjoy 10% off all ticket types for SailGP’s upcoming US events with promo code S5NMASA10. Apply the promo code at checkout and secure your spot now!

American Sailing Members get a 15% discount. Log in to the Members Portal to get your member-only promo code.

MARCH 15-16, 2025
Rolex Los Angeles Sail Grand Prix

MARCH 22-23, 2025
Oracle San Francisco Sail Grand Prix