Christchurch Set to Host Record-Breaking SailGP Event with 22,000 Fans Expected
The ITM New Zealand SailGP Grand Prix | Christchurch is poised to enter the history books as the largest ticketed sailing event ever, with an anticipated crowd of 22,000 enthusiasts expected to gather at Lyttelton Harbour on March 23-24. This monumental event follows the success of last year’s inaugural Grand Prix and promises an even more thrilling experience for fans and competitors alike.
A New Chapter for the Black Foils
The New Zealand team, led by Peter Burling and now rebranded as the Black Foils, is eagerly looking forward to competing on home waters. This rebranding reflects a new era for the team, inspired by New Zealand’s rich sporting heritage. After securing consecutive victories in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Burling’s return is highly anticipated, especially following a third-place finish at the KPMG Australia Sail Grand Prix in Sydney under substitute driver Nathan Outteridge.
Anticipation Builds for Homecoming Victory
Burling expressed his excitement and determination to secure a win, buoyed by significant home support and the fresh team identity. The presence of a passionate home crowd and favorable sailing conditions in Lyttelton Harbour are expected to provide the perfect backdrop for an intense competition.
Defending Champion and Rivalry Heats Up
Phil Robertson, last year’s Christchurch event winner and Canada SailGP Team skipper, is also ready to defend his title on familiar territory. Meanwhile, Australia’s SailGP Team, led by Tom Slingsby and currently leading the season standings, is motivated by the trans-Tasman rivalry, aiming to outperform the Kiwis on their turf.
SailGP’s Global Appeal and Women’s Pathway Program
As the event approaches, the SailGP Season 4 Championship standings are tightly contested, with Australia in the lead. The event also shines a spotlight on SailGP’s efforts to promote inclusivity and sustainability in the sport, including partnerships with Women Who Sail NZ and the Women’s Pathway Program, aimed at increasing female participation in professional sailing.
Elevated Fan Experiences and Live Entertainment
The ITM New Zealand Sail Grand Prix | Christchurch is not just about the races but also offers an immersive fan experience. The event will feature premium amenities, live music performances by Kiwi legends Sir Dave Dobbyn and Shapeshifter, and various activities designed to engage sailing fans of all ages.
How to Watch
The action-packed weekend will be broadcast live, allowing fans worldwide to follow the intense racing and root for their favorite teams. For those in Christchurch, a limited number of tickets are still available, offering a unique opportunity to witness this historic sailing spectacle firsthand.
As SailGP continues to redefine sailing with high-speed, high-tech competitions, the Christchurch event stands as a testament to the sport’s growing popularity and SailGP’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and global community engagement.
For details on how to watch around the globe visit SailGP.com/Watch.
Head to SailGP.com/Christchurch for more information and to secure a final remaining ticket.
ITM NEW ZEALAND SAIL GRAND PRIX | CHRISTCHURCH //
Day One Racing: Saturday, March 23, 3.00 p.m. – 4.30 p.m. NZDT
Day Two Racing: Sunday, March 24, 3.00 p.m. – 4.30 p.m. NZDT
SAILGP SEASON 4 CHAMPIONSHIP STANDINGS (after eight events) //
1 // Australia 66 points
2 // New Zealand 58 points
3 // ROCKWOOL Denmark 52 points
4 // Spain 48 points
5 // France 45 points
6 // Emirates GBR 45 points
7 // United States 45 points
8 // Canada 38 points
9 // Germany 21 points
10 // Switzerland 17 points
- Spain SailGP Team docked two points in Season Championship for four-point penalty at Spain Sail Grand Prix | Andalucía-Cádiz
- New Zealand SailGP Team unable to compete in Taranto due to the structural failure of the team’s wingsail at France Sail Grand Prix | Saint-Tropez
- Canada SailGP Team Docked four points in Season Championship for eight-point penalty at France Sail Grand Prix | Saint-Tropez
- Germany SailGP Team docked two points in Season Championship for four-point penalty at Oracle Los Angeles Sail Grand Prix
- Switzerland SailGP Team docked four points in Season Championship for eight-point penalty at Mubadala Abu Dhabi Sail Grand Prix presented by Abu Dhabi Sports Council
SAILGP SEASON 4 IMPACT LEAGUE STANDINGS //
1 // Switzerland // 347 points
2 // Australia // 323 points
3 // ROCKWOOL Denmark // 308 points
4 // New Zealand // 304 points
5 // Germany // 299 points
6 // United States // 298 points
7 // Canada // 289 points
8 // Emirates Great Britain // 286 points
9 // France // 285 points
10 // Spain // 256 points
