SailGP's return to Auckland for Season 6 is confirmed

by Ben Mackey, Black Foils 27 Jun 10:16 NZST

Black Foils - Race Day 1- ITM New Zealand - January 19, 2025 - Auckland © Felix Diemer/SailGP

After a record breaking debut, the ITM New Zealand Sail Grand Prix Auckland has been confirmed to be returning in 2026 and is set to be bigger than ever.

Fans will cheer on local hopes the Black Foils on Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour against their international rivals over Valentine’s Day weekend 14-15 February 2026. SailGP has today released full details of its forthcoming 2026 Season, including the return of fan-favorite locations, multi-year hosting agreements secured across all regions, and a racing calendar for the Rolex SailGP Championship that spans five global continents.

The calendar confirmation also sees ITM locked in as the New Zealand Grand Prix’s Title Partner, marking a fourth year supporting the league’s New Zealand leg alongside a partnership with New Zealand’s Black Foils.

Leading professional service firm KPMG Australia will be on board as Official Regional Partner, announcing an expanded commitment across all three events in the Asia-Pacific region, including presenting partner for the Oracle Perth Sail Grand Prix, returning Title Partner for the KPMG Sydney Sail Grand Prix, and an official event partner of the ITM New Zealand Sail Grand Prix | Auckland.

After record setting attendances in Auckland this year and previous record breaking attendances in Christchurch, it’s once again expected there will be strong demand for tickets from passionate local fans and international visitors. Fans are encouraged to sign-up for ticket information and pre-sale access via SailGP+ so they don’t miss out when tickets go on sale.

Black Foils Co-CEO and Driver Peter Burling said, “Auckland set a new standard for SailGP events in 2025 and we are delighted to be returning next year and to be able to race in front of our home fans. It was special to finally see F50s racing in the inner harbour this year and showcase the spectacle of SailGP to our biggest city. The setting in Auckland is a great advertisement for what SailGP is all about. I can’t wait to be part of the energy that it brought to the city again next year. It really is special to race at home.”

New Zealand Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston said, “This year’s event in Auckland was a highlight of the summer and delivered positive results for both the city and New Zealand, including reaching a significant global TV audience of 16.9 million people. I’m pleased to see dates confirmed for SailGP’s return next year, with continued support from the government’s Major Events Fund.”

Tataki Auckland Unlimited Chief Executive Nick Hill said, “We couldn’t be happier to welcome SailGP back to Tamaki Makaurau Auckland in 2026. The vibe along the waterfront in 2025 was amazing and really showed how well events like this fit with our city. Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour is made for moments like these. With summer in full swing, there will be plenty for locals and visitors to enjoy, both on the water and around the region. Events like SailGP show off the best of Auckland, from our natural beauty to our great energy. They also bring real benefits to local businesses and communities. SailGP is going to be another great addition to Auckland’s 2026 event calendar.”

ITM CEO Sara Johnson said, “The 2025 event was a standout on New Zealand’s sporting calendar. Watching it unfold in such a world-class setting with speed, pressure, and precision on full display was unforgettable. As a proud New Zealand-owned Co-operative, ITM is committed to backing events that align with our values. The performance on the water, the teamwork, and the pride each SailGP team shows in their people are qualities we resonate with deeply. We’re pleased to continue supporting this event on home waters. It’s a privilege to help bring this experience to Kiwi audiences.”

SailGP CEO Sir Russell Coutts, said: “As we reach the halfway point of the current season, it’s thrilling to look ahead to 2026 and unveil the next stage in the Rolex SailGP Championship. We’re looking forward to our most expansive calendar to date, as we continue to deliver high-intensity racing to fans across the globe.”

Providing more meaningful competition, the 2026 Season continues SailGP’s progression toward a consistent, regionalized format, with event dates in line with previous seasons. Multi-year hosting agreements set the stage for 2027 and beyond, with regional groupings not only delivering a more consistent calendar – starting in the Asia-Pacific and finishing in the Middle East – but also reducing travel distances and improving operational efficiencies.

Rolex SailGP Championship - 2026 Season Calendar

January 17-18 – Oracle Perth Sail Grand Prix presented by KPMG

February 14-15 – ITM New Zealand Sail Grand Prix | Auckland

February 28 - March 1 – KPMG Sydney Sail Grand Prix

April 11-12 - Enel Rio Sail Grand Prix

May 9-10 - Apex Group Bermuda Sail Grand Prix

May 30-31- Mubadala New York Sail Grand Prix

June 20-21 - Canada Sail Grand Prix | Halifax

July - Emirates Great Britain Sail Grand Prix | Portsmouth

Sep / Oct - European Sail Grand Prix | TBC

September 12-13 - Rockwool France Sail Grand Prix | Saint-Tropez

November 21-22 - Emirates Dubai Sail Grand Prix, presented by DP World