5 things you need to know about the SailGP racing

With SailGP fast approaching, see which five things you need to know about the race.

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1. There are nine teams competing for the Grand Final prize pot of $1 million! The reigning champions Australia are led by Tom Slingsby and are current firm favourites after two event wins already this season. They’ll also be joined by teams from Denmark, France, Great Britain, New Zealand, Spain and the United States. The British F50 will be driven by the most successful sailor in Olympic History Sir Ben Ainslie.

2. This is the 3rd season for SailGP, it comprises 11 events, and started off in Bermuda on the 14th and 15th of May and will culminate in the Grand Final in San Francisco in May 2023. These events are fiercely contested and highly competitive. 

3. The F50 catamarans that are identical and used by all the teams and capable of up to 60mph. They use a range of foils that act like aeroplane wings to lift the boat out of the water. The boats are 24m tall from the driver’s position to the top of the sail and while the Jib (front sail) is flexible, like a normal sail, the main sail is of a solid construction and allows the boat to go faster than the wind.

4. Everything that moves on the boat is powered by hydraulics and as they are not permitted to carry batteries they are charged by 2 grinders who pump up the system. The team also comprises a wing trimmer to adjust the main sail, a flight controller who angles the hydrofoils to control the pitch of the boat, a team strategist and a driver to navigate the boat.

5. All of the races will be streamed live on YouTube and Sky Sports in the UK for all to watch! Whether you’re a sailing expert or novice, the live commentary will bring everyone up to speed. All details about how to watch can be found at: sailgp.com/watch/

See all the action live from Plymouth Hoe on 30 and 31 July. Get your tickets and plan your day: Great Britain Sail Grand Prix - Visit Plymouth

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Plymouth is easily accessible by train with a wide range of services running from a variety of locations within England. Although some services may require a change or two.

Travelling from London takes around 3 hours with Great Western Railway, if you're coming from the north, the trip from Manchester can take 5 hours 15 minutes. 

Alternatively, the recently renovated Night Riviera Sleeper service runs Monday – Friday and Sunday evenings. Visit gwr.com/sleeper for more details on times and how to book.

We recommend using GWR.com to search for the fastest and best route for your journey, and book in advance for the best price.