ICOMIA podcast: Fast boats, fresh fans – how Antonio Alquézar and SailGP are changing the game
Antonio Alquézar, team principal of SailGP Spain, explains how SailGP’s race format, logistics structure and sustainability programme are reshaping elite sailing and drawing in a new, younger audience to the world of boating.
SailGP is achieving mass reach with demographics that are often underrepresented in the marine industry. Around 65 per cent of its audience is under 33, and each Grand Prix draws approximately 25 million viewers. This exposure is helping to build long-term participation and future demand across the industry.
The league ensures a level playing field by using identical F50 boats. Upgrades, such as the introduction of new T foils, are rolled out to all teams simultaneously. As a result, the competition is decided by skill, race starts and tactical execution rather than spending power – which keeps racing tight and storytelling compelling for audiences.
Behind the scenes, centralised SailGP technical and logistics teams manage global transport, fleet maintenance and safety investigations. This shared infrastructure lowers the cost, minimises risk and improves turnaround times between events.
Sustainability is embedded into the SailGP model through the Impact League, which ranks teams based on positive actions around sustainability, inclusion and youth development. Each event leaves a lasting local legacy through community programmes. In Spain, for instance, the Foiling Base trained around 4,000 young people last year.
Looking ahead, SailGP plans to grow from 12 to between 14 and 16 teams, and from 13 to as many as 20 events per season. Discussions are already underway for purpose-built transport solutions to support a denser calendar.
Commercial interest continues to climb, with prominent figures such as Anne Hathaway, Sebastian Vettel and Kylian Mbappé investing in teams. This backing highlights SailGP’s crossover appeal and its reach beyond traditional sailing audiences.
Alquézar notes the unique culture of SailGP: “We fight on the water … but off the water we all work together.” Despite fierce competition during races, teams collaborate on safety, technology and community outreach, aligning with the broader goals of the marine industry.
For the industry at large, SailGP presents a clear opportunity. It serves as a proven entry point for younger fans and future participants, driving interest in foiling, sustainable practices and professional skills pathways – all with tangible benefits for marinas, training programmes, equipment manufacturers and event organisers.
