SailGP Sets Course for Abu Dhabi in 2024

The Mubadala Abu Dhabi Sail Grand Prix will set sail on 13 and 14 January 2024.

Sailing fans, mark your calendars as the first ever Mubadala Abu Dhabi Sail Grand Prix presented by Abu Dhabi Sports Council will take place at Mina Zayed on 13 and 14 January 2024. 

The announcement was made during a press conference at Saadiyat Beach Club, in the presence of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, President of the Emirates Modern Sailing and Rowing Federation, HE Aref Hamad Al Awani, General Secretary of Abu Dhabi Sports Council, Mansour Al Ketbi, Executive Director of Digital and Corporate Services at Mubadala Investment Company and representative for Mubadala Foundation, and Russell Coutts, CEO of SailGP, along with several leading sports professionals.  

What does this mean for the capital? 

Mubadala Abu Dhabi SailGP will further enhance the city’s role as a premier sporting destination, which is no stranger to hosting world-class events such as the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open, World Triathlon Championship and World Jiu-Jitsu Championship. 

Spectators can enjoy the racing action from purpose-built stands or from the water, as the identical F50 hydrofoil catamarans compete in a 12-minute, six-race format, leading to a “winner takes it all” race between the top three teams of the weekend.

What does Mubadala Abu Dhabi Grand Prix mean for SailGP?

SailGP CEO Russell Coutts said: “This is another great moment for our global championship as we continue our rapid expansion and I am delighted that we are adding another new capital city to our event roster for Season Four. Of course, this wouldn’t be possible without our partners and in particular Mubadala Investment Company – who has increased its commitment to SailGP over the next three seasons – along with the support of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council. Together we will work to promote climate-positive solutions and foster transformative change within the region – through initiatives such as Inspire – and look at ways that we can make an impact long into the future.”

How to watch the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Sail Grand Prix

Abu Dhabi’s skyline will provide a unique backdrop as the ten teams will battle it out in the waters of Mina Zayed port, and fans will be able to experience the race in different ways. If you’re planning to attend SailGP, here are the options:

Waterfront Grandstand: Experience the thrilling action up close, less than 50 meters from the racecourse. The Waterfront Grandstand offers an exclusive spectator area with big screens and live race commentary. Don’t miss out on the Race Stadium with its food, beverages, fan activities, and merchandise stands.

Premier Waterfront Grandstand: For an even more exclusive experience on land, the Premier Waterfront Grandstand is a must for racing enthusiasts. Enjoy complimentary drinks and snacks, upgraded seating, large screens, and exciting live commentary that guides you through every heart-pounding moment. Stick around for live music after the races.

Team Base Tours: Take a peek behind the scenes at SailGP with a Team Base Tour. Explore the ‘pit lane garages’ where athletes and shore teams prepare the high-tech F50 race boats. This exclusive tour offers a rare chance to get up close to SailGP’s elite athletes and cutting-edge boats as they gear up for battle at Mina Zayed.

Bring Your Own Boat: Want to be in the heart of the action? Get the SailGP VIP flag and watch the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Sail Grand Prix from your own boat. Secure the best vantage spot right on the racecourse perimeter. Enjoy exclusive access on both racing days and stay tuned to live race commentary via VHF.

GO: Visit https://sailgp.com for tickets and more information.