• Entrepreneurship

Mubadala and SailGP Join Forces to Host Inaugural Abu Dhabi Sail Grand Prix

by Swati Gupta

September 13, 2023 30

Abu Dhabi is poised to make history as it prepares to host the first-ever Abu Dhabi Sail Grand Prix, a thrilling sailing competition scheduled for January 13 and 14, 2024, at the picturesque Mina Zayed.

This exciting event, featuring the world’s elite athletes representing national teams from across the globe, promises heart-pounding action as they compete aboard hydrofoiling F50 catamarans, capable of reaching staggering speeds of nearly 100 km/h.

In collaboration with SailGP’s Global Series Partner, Mubadala Investment Company, and the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, this event marks a remarkable addition to SailGP’s Season 4 calendar. SailGP, known for its high-speed races, has swiftly become one of the fastest-growing sports leagues worldwide.

Ten formidable teams hailing from Australia, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Great Britain, New Zealand, Spain, Switzerland, and the United States will engage in two days of intense competition, racing along the shores of Abu Dhabi’s vibrant port.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, President of the Emirates Modern Sailing and Rowing Federation, expressed his enthusiasm for hosting this electrifying sailing race, stating, “We appreciate the efforts of the organizers of the upcoming event, such as the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and Mubadala. We are delighted that Abu Dhabi will serve as a new stage for a major international event.” He further emphasized the event’s significance in solidifying Abu Dhabi’s position as a premier sporting destination in the region and the Middle East.

Sheikh Ahmed also lauded Abu Dhabi’s meticulous preparations for the event, highlighting its potential to showcase advanced sailing techniques and modern scientific methods within a collaborative team framework.

Aref Hamad Al Awani, the General Secretary of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, expressed his pride in hosting this championship, underscoring Abu Dhabi’s robust infrastructure and its emergence as a prime sports destination. He remarked, “This is a testament to the capital’s infrastructure and huge potential. As SailGP is one of the latest sports that is growing rapidly, the Abu Dhabi Sports Council is keen to support the championship. We also have a strategic and permanent partnership with Mubadala in hosting and organizing tournaments.”

Mubadala Investment Company, serving as the event’s Title Partner and Global Series Partner of the Inspire Program, is actively supporting SailGP’s initiatives to promote STEM education and inclusivity. SailGP’s Inspire initiative has already engaged over 15,000 young people globally, with a goal of reaching 25,000 by the end of 2025.

Homaid Al Shimmari, Deputy Group CEO and Chief Corporate & Human Capital Officer at Mubadala, expressed his excitement, saying, “We’re excited to bring SailGP to Abu Dhabi, building on our strong maritime heritage and showcasing our role as a responsible investor. Driving positive change has been our core mandate since our inception, and our partnership with SailGP, a like-minded trailblazing organization, reinforces this commitment.”

Mina Zayed will provide fans with a front-row seat to witness the exhilarating high-speed racing action. Spectators can choose from various ticket categories, including premier grandstand seats with complimentary drinks and snacks, team base tours for an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience, or on-water viewing for those with their own boats.

Russell Coutts, CEO of SailGP, expressed his delight at expanding the championship to another capital city for Season 4. He praised the support of Mubadala Investment Company and the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, emphasizing their joint commitment to promoting climate-positive solutions and transformative change.

The event offers multiple ticket categories to cater to different preferences:

1. Waterfront Grandstand: Spectators can enjoy high-speed racing from a location less than 50 meters from the racecourse. This exclusive section of the official spectator area includes large screens and live race commentary. Attendees will also have access to the Race Stadium, featuring food and beverage zones, fan interactions, and merchandise stalls.
2. Premier Waterfront Grandstand: For an even more exclusive experience, fans can opt for the Premier Waterfront Grandstand. Premier attendees will enjoy complimentary beverages and snacks, enhanced grandstand seating, oversized screens, and captivating live commentary. Live music will kick off following the races.
3. Team Base Tours: Fans can embark on an exclusive journey into the “pit lane garages,” where athletes and shore teams prepare the high-tech F50 race boats. This tour provides a unique opportunity to witness SailGP’s top-tier athletes and state-of-the-art wing-sailed boats up close as they prepare for competition at Mina Zayed.
4. Bring Your Own Boat: Witness the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Sail Grand Prix from the comfort of your own boat. Secure a SailGP VIP flag for prime viewing right along the edge of the racecourse. This exclusive package includes access on both race days and live race commentary via VHF.

Please note that boats without a flag will be positioned at a minimum distance of 200 meters behind boats displaying VIP flags.