Returning to the Port of Los Angeles, the Rolex Los Angeles Sail Grand Prix will take place on March 15 and 16. The Oracle San Francisco Sail Grand Prix and the Mubadala New York Grand Prix will then follow.
“SailGP will bring thousands of people together to enjoy its close-to-shore racing and entertainment–an unforgettable experience,” said SailGP CEO and co-founder Sir Russell Coutts.
An annual global tournament in iconic cities, the Rolex SailGP Championship sees 12 national teams go head-to-head in 50-foot foiling catamarans, racing to the finish line at speeds over 60 miles per hour.
“We are looking forward to once again sponsoring and hosting this prestigious international competition on our own LA Waterfront,” said Port of Los Angeles executive director Gene Seroka. “Events and major attractions like these bring both positive attention and economic benefits to our harbor area and the city of Los Angeles. It’s a great way to show off all the transformative development and investment ongoing on the L.A. Waterfront as well.”
With the stadium right at the water’s edge, spectators get to be in the middle of all the action. The afternoon will also feature food, beverages, exclusive SailGP merchandise and entertainment. The stadium opens at 12:45 p.m., and races kick off at 2 p.m.
Adds Rolex director of communication and image Arnaud Boetsch, “Since its inception, Rolex has proudly supported the championship and the athletes who push the boundaries of performance and speed. We are delighted to have deepened our commitment to the sport, honoring the skill, determination and teamwork that are fundamental to success. We look forward to more remarkable achievements in Los Angeles.”
The Rolex Los Angeles Sail Grand Prix is expected to attract quite the crowd. Back in July 2023—the last time there was an L.A. SailGP—the event spurred an estimated economic impact of $6.9 million to the city. Additionally, two-time Paralympic champion Ezra Frech, national TV broadcaster Natalie Morales, MTV Catfish host Nev Schulman and actor Gilles Marini will be in attendance.
Tickets are available now, but are quickly heading toward selling out. It will be free to attend for Los Angeles first responders and their families.