Fast water, a fired-up fleet, and a forecast built for chaos, the Rolex SailGP Championship returns to the Great Sound this weekend. This marks the fifth event of the 2026 Season, where the title race is tightening and there are roster shake-ups across the fleet.
The Bonds Flying Roos enter the weekend in first place, having secured a commanding victory in Rio last month. They are seven points clear of the rest of the fleet, but three-time Rolex SailGP Champion Tom Slingsby warns that Bermuda’s flat water and reliable breeze could equalise the competition.
“I don’t think boat speed’s going to be much of a factor,” said Slingsby. “All these teams will be able to sail the boat at very close to 100% of its capabilities. So, I think it’s gonna come down to the racing skills.”
Second in the standings, Emirates GBR, comes into Bermuda looking to recover from an uncharacteristic last-place finish in Rio. Driver Dylan Fletcher emphasised the importance of teamwork: “The focus going into Bermuda is around trying to get back to our strong, consistent starts and then mainly the teamwork, keeping the team in a good place. We know that if we all deliver in our role and work well as a team, then the results will take care of themselves.”
The Apex Group Bermuda Sail Grand Prix will feature two action-packed days of racing (May 9-10). Saturday promises the fast, stable foiling conditions Bermuda is known for. Red Bull Italy driver Phil Robertson stated, “Dead flat water, so nice and easy, you can really push the boat to its limits and lock it in.”
Teammate Jana Germani added that they would be going “all in” this weekend, stating, “Phil doesn’t fear the fear. It will be spectacular.” Sunday’s forecast, however, indicates lighter, patchier winds, leading to a more unpredictable finale. Consistency will be crucial for teams aiming to move up the leaderboard as results stretch out.
More than 5,000 fans are expected at the sold-out Race Stadium at Morgan’s Point, providing an exciting atmosphere for both athletes and spectators. Artemis SailGP Team driver Nathan Outteridge noted, “We can fly really high, really find performance in the boats – and we’re going to be really close to shore so the fans are going to get to see it.”
Notably, New Zealand’s Black Foils will not compete following a significant racing incident earlier this year, leading to several crew changes across the fleet. Kiwi strategist Liv Mackay will join DS Automobiles Team France, while Glenn Ashby replaces injured French wing trimmer Leigh McMillan. Black Foils grinder Marcus Hansen has been loaned to ROCKWOOL Racing, which is eager to improve its standings. The New Zealand SailGP Team aims to return for the Canada Sail Grand Prix in Halifax on June 20-21, 2026.
Switzerland’s Sébastien Schneiter enters the weekend revitalised by a new partnership with title sponsor Explora Journeys, marking the first event under their new colours. “It’s been a tough start of the season and this gives us a bit of a breath of fresh air,” said Schneiter, referring to the new energy surrounding his team.
Racing begins tomorrow (Saturday, May 9) at 2 p.m. local time. For more details, visit SailGP.com/Watch.
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