More Than a Race: Why SailGP Should Be on Your Summer Bucket List

Returning to Southsea Common this morning, there was an immediate sense that something had changed. The crowds were bigger, the atmosphere even livelier and the Race Village was already buzzing with excited visitors. If Saturday introduced us to SailGP, Sunday showed us why people were coming back for more.

Something for Everyone

The Race Village was alive with activity.

One of the busiest places all day was the official merchandise store. From Emirates GBR caps and shirts to souvenirs celebrating the Portsmouth event, supporters queued to take home a little piece of the weekend.

Beyond the racing, there was plenty to keep visitors entertained. Families queued to test their reactions on sailing simulators, tried their luck on spin-to-win games and interactive activities, while the Red Bull stand proved a popular stop, offering complimentary drinks to help everyone stay cool in the summer heat.

Live music, sing-alongs and crowd games kept the atmosphere alive between races, meaning there was never a dull moment. Even if the boats weren’t on the water, the entertainment certainly didn’t stop.

Food Worth Talking About

One of the biggest surprises was the variety of food available.

Far from the usual event catering, visitors could choose from slow-cooked hog roast, Korean street food, gourmet sandwiches, Chilean hot dogs, fresh fish tacos, artisan coffee and of course ice cream.

For those looking to elevate their experience, the Vela Bar and Lounge and the Adrenaline Lounge offered premium hospitality with spectacular views across the Solent. Elsewhere, bars serving beers, wine and gin ensured there was something for every taste, while free water refill stations were dotted across the site—a thoughtful addition that was particularly appreciated in the warm weather.

There really was something for everyone, whether you wanted a quick bite between races or to sit back with a drink overlooking the Solent.

Accessibility Done Right

One feature that genuinely stood out throughout the weekend was SailGP’s commitment to accessibility. From step-free routes and lifts to dedicated viewing areas for wheelchair users and facilities for less-abled visitors, it was evident that inclusion had been considered at every stage of the event’s design.

Even the practical details impressed. The luxury toilet facilities remained exceptionally clean throughout the day, with staff constantly working behind the scenes to empty bins and keep the site spotless. It’s often these small touches that visitors remember most.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Away from the racing, Team GB strategist and Olympic champion Hannah Mills spoke passionately about inspiring more young people to discover sailing. Her message focused on creating opportunities for the next generation to get out on the water and become involved in sailing programmes—an inspiring reminder that SailGP is helping to shape the future of the sport, not just showcase its elite athletes.

The Racing Delivers Again

Sunday’s racing brought another twist.

A change in the wind shifted the racecourse closer to the shoreline, giving spectators even better views of the spectacular foiling catamarans as they flew across the Solent.

Although Team GB missed out on a place in the final, the atmosphere never dipped. Supporters continued cheering every nation, applauding great racing regardless of the flag on the sail.

The final belonged to Spain’s Los Gallos, who produced a superb performance to take the Portsmouth title. The celebrations that followed, complete with the traditional champagne spray and trophy presentation, provided a fitting finale to an unforgettable weekend.

A Perfect Finish

Final celebrations brought Craig David to the stage, to round off an unforgettable weekend. Thousands gathered one last time, singing along as the sun slowly dipped over the Solent. It felt like the perfect finale—not just to a sporting event, but to a weekend that had brought together world-class competition, live music and a real sense of community.

Final Thoughts

Walking away from Southsea Common for the final time, one thought kept coming back to me. SailGP isn’t just a sailing competition. It isn’t simply about who wins on the water. It’s about the atmosphere, the people, the city and the memories made along the shoreline. Whether you come for the racing, the food, the live entertainment or simply to enjoy a summer’s day by the sea, SailGP delivers an experience that’s difficult to match.

Whether you’re a lifelong sailing enthusiast, a family looking for an unforgettable day out or simply someone who enjoys a great atmosphere by the sea, SailGP offers something genuinely different.

If you’ve been wondering whether SailGP Portsmouth is worth your time and money next year, stop wondering. Buy the ticket. You won’t regret it.

After spending two days immersed in everything SailGP has to offer, one thing is certain: Portsmouth has firmly established itself as one of the world’s great sporting venues, and we can’t wait to return next year.

Website: sailgp.com
Facebook: facebook.com/SailGP
Instagram: instagram.com/sailgp
TikTok: tiktok.com/@sailgp
YouTube: youtube.com/sailgp

Photos: Gracie White
Words: Kristiina Pennell