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New York SailGP Day 1 Disrupted by High Winds, Results Voided

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Mubadala New York Sail Grand Prix: Day 1 Voided After Wind Disruption

Severe Weather Forces Reduced Fleet

The opening day of the Mubadala New York Sail Grand Prix on May 30, 2026, was significantly disrupted by strong, gusty winds, resulting in a reduced fleet and the eventual voiding of all race results.

"Wind speeds reportedly topped 21 knots with directional changes and gusts."

Fresh and swirling winds exceeding limits for safe crane operations prevented the launch of the full fleet. Due to these conditions, race organizers prioritized launching F50 catamarans based on season standings.

Reduced Fleet and Racing

Only four teams were able to launch: Australia (BONDS Flying Roos), Great Britain (Emirates Great Britain), Spain (Los Gallos), and the United States (USA SailGP Team). The remaining eight teams were unable to compete.

The Australian team withdrew before official racing after a nosedive during a warm-up. Reports indicate the incident caused damage to the front crossbeam and port-side foil case. No injuries were reported. The team's ability to race on Day 2 was said to depend on overnight repairs.

Three races were conducted with the three remaining teams (Great Britain, Spain, and the United States):

  • Race 1: Great Britain won, Spain placed second. The United States did not compete.
  • Race 2: Spain won, Great Britain placed second, and the United States placed third (a restart was required after a windshift aborted the initial start).
  • Race 3: Spain won, Great Britain placed second, and the United States placed third.

Decision on Scoring

SailGP’s Race Committee initially announced the races would not count toward the season standings. Later, it was formally decided that no points from Day 1 would count toward the event or Season 6 championship standings.

"The committee stated this decision was made 'in the interest of maintaining the integrity and fairness of competition.'"

Statements

  • Spanish skipper Diego Botin expressed mixed feelings regarding his team’s lead, noting the unusual circumstances of the day.
  • British skipper Dylan Fletcher indicated he believed the day’s racing counted for the championship, a view organizers later contradicted.
  • Actor Ewan McGregor (Obi-Wan Kenobi) joined the British boat after the races.

Outlook

Racing resumed on Sunday, May 31, at 3:30 PM local time with all 12 teams expected to compete. Forecasts called for lighter winds. All results from Day 2 are set to count toward the event and championship standings.