First Oracle Perth SailGP Hits Capacity Ahead of 2026 Season Opener

SailGP CEO and co-founder SailGP has formalised its arrival in Western Australia with a complete sell-out of the inaugural Oracle Perth Sail Grand Prix presented by KPMG.

The event, set to take place in Fremantle this weekend (17–18 January), marks the first time the global championship has opened its season in Australia, with more than 15,000 ticket-holders expected to pack the organisation’s first-ever “Grandstand Stadium” on Bathers Beach.

Expressing his pride in the Fremantle reception, SailGP CEO and co-founder, Sir Russell Coutts, said: “Shortly after we went on sale, it was clear we were likely to sell out. The support for SailGP has been phenomenal in Perth.”

He noted that the Indian Ocean’s reliable “Fremantle Doctor” winds are expected to provide world-class racing conditions for the high-tech F50 catamarans, which can exceed speeds of 100km/h.

The 2025 season generated a global broadcast audience of 215 million, and the WA government aims to leverage this reach to showcase Fremantle as a premier sporting destination.

Highlighting the broader commercial implications of the event, Acting Tourism Minister, Dr Tony Buti, added: “The sell-out is a clear sign that Western Australia is a world-class host.”

“SailGP will deliver a significant boost to our economic diversification strategy, supporting local tourism operators and businesses,” Buti added.

The sell-out provides a boost for the league as it enters its sixth season with a record-breaking expansion.

For the first time, a fleet of 13 national teams, including the newly formed Artemis SailGP Team from Sweden and Red Bull Italy, will compete on the same start line.

The program represents a major coup for Tourism Western Australia, with the event secured as part of a three-year deal expected to inject millions into the state’s economy and support hundreds of local jobs.

Fans who secured tickets will also gain access to the Après Sail festival at Bathers Beach, featuring a headline performance by ARIA-winning duo Sneaky Sound System on Sunday.

For those who missed out, the organisation has confirmed that the racing will be broadcast live in Australia on Fox Sports, Kayo, and SBS, ensuring the recognisable green-and-gold BONDS Flying Roos, led by Tom Slingsby, are seen by millions as they begin their quest to reclaim the championship honour.

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