SailGP is set to return to Halifax this weekend for the seventh event of the 2026 Season, attracting more than 12,000 spectators over two days (June 20-21). Thirteen international teams will compete, with New Zealand’s newly-acquired ‘Black Foils’ making their comeback after a four-month hiatus.
The event will see challenging conditions, including significant Atlantic swells and unpredictable breezes. The NorthStar SailGP Team, hailing from Canada, will aim to build on their recent performances from events in Bermuda and New York.
Billy Gooderham, the flight controller for NorthStar and a Halifax local, commented on the team’s progress, stating, “Bermuda was a mid-fleet event for us, but it was still a step forward. It’s good to know we’re heading in the right direction.”
Driving the Canadian vessel is two-time Olympic Champion Giles Scott, who has fond memories of racing in Halifax. “It’s an amazing city and venue for racing F50s. The buzz around town is incredible, and I have no doubt this weekend will be a huge success,” he said.
As the Rolex SailGP Championship reaches its midpoint, the Bonds Flying Roos from Australia are on the hunt for their fourth consecutive event victory. Strategist Tash Bryant expressed the team’s ambition, saying, “Tom has always been really clear that we want to be the greatest team that’s ever raced in this league.”
Phil Robertson, a familiar face to Halifax crowds and former Canada SailGP Team driver now with Red Bull Italy, will also compete this weekend, showcasing resilience after significant damage to his team’s vessel in New York last month.
Robertson expressed surprise at being able to race, praising the efforts of SailGP Technologies: “That’s a huge credit to them. We’re super appreciative of all the work that’s gone into getting our boat back here in Halifax.”
The return of the Black Foils marks an important moment for the league, as they compete for the first time since a serious collision in Auckland earlier this year. Driver Peter Burling acknowledged the challenges of their hiatus and the team’s preparations for this event.
Stuart Dodson joins the New Zealand crew for the remainder of the season following the injury of grinder Louis Sinclair. Burling noted that the acquisition of the Black Foils by MSP Sports Capital is a significant milestone for the league, now with all 13 teams in private ownership.
The Canada Sail Grand Prix in Halifax kicks off on Sunday, June 21, at 5 a.m. AEST.
#SailGP #BlackFoils #NorthStar #BondsFlyingRoos
Interested in seeing more Racing News? Click here
Follow our coverage of what’s happening in the foiling World Click here
Follow all our SailGP coverage Click here
