Marina Port Valencia has completed its first weekend as a SailGP host venue. The Spain Sail Grand Prix Valencia, held on 5 and 6 September 2026, brought thousands of fans to the waterfront and ended with the United States taking victory ahead of Australia.
The circuit’s first visit to Valencia combined elite racing with a busy weekend at the marina. According to Marina Port Valencia’s event review, tickets sold out for both race days.
Thirteen teams on a course close to shore
The thirteen teams competed aboard F50 catamarans, boats capable of exceeding 100 km/h. A racecourse close to the coast allowed spectators to follow the action from the waterfront, with the marina serving as an operational hub and meeting point throughout the weekend.
The arrival of sailors, technical crews, event staff and visitors increased activity around the facilities and their surroundings. For Marina Port Valencia, the event provided an opportunity to showcase its spaces to an international audience and strengthen the city’s profile as a destination for sports and nautical tourism.
United States wins as Los Gallos miss the final
Spain’s Los Gallos stood out on Saturday with two wins and a second-place finish, putting the team at the top of its group. Sunday’s wind conditions changed the course of the competition, and Spain did not qualify for the final.
The United States won the deciding race ahead of Australia on a day of demanding conditions. The result is confirmed in SailGP’s official event report.
A marina adapted for international racing
In the preceding weeks, Marina Port Valencia adapted different areas to meet the needs of teams, organisers and spectators. Day-to-day marina operations continued alongside preparations for a competition that temporarily transformed the site and brought part of the event into the city.
A relationship set to continue in future seasons
The debut forms part of the three-year agreement announced by SailGP. The circuit’s return offers an opportunity to build on the organisational experience gained during the first edition and further raise the international profile of Valencia’s waterfront.
Marina Port Valencia says the weekend has brought new experience in hosting major events and reinforced the connection between the city, the sea and competitive sport.
Source: Marina Port Valencia. Photos: Marina Port Valencia.