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Abu Dhabi, the vibrant capital of the United Arab Emirates, is poised to become the epicenter of thrilling water sports action as it readies to host the much-anticipated inaugural Abu Dhabi Sail Grand Prix. Set against the backdrop of the historic Mina Zayed port, this electrifying spectacle promises to be a thrilling showdown featuring ten formidable teams battling head-to-head on the azure waters.
The event, scheduled for January 13 and 14, 2024, is presented in collaboration with Mubadala Investment Group, SailGP's Global Series Partner, and the Abu Dhabi Sports Council. This global sporting extravaganza was officially unveiled at a prestigious press conference held at the Saadiyat Beach Club in Abu Dhabi.
The gathering witnessed the esteemed presence of Sheikh Ahmed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, President of the Emirates Modern Sailing and Rowing Federation; Aref Hamad Al Awani, General Secretary of Abu Dhabi Sport Council; Mansour Al Ketbi, Executive Director of Digital and Corporate Services at Mubadala Investment Company and representative for Mubadala Foundation; and Russell Coutts, CEO of SailGP, accompanied by numerous luminaries from the world of sports.
SailGP is poised to etch its name in history by bringing this global racing championship, one of the fastest-growing sports leagues worldwide, to the capital of the UAE. Enthusiastic fans and spectators will gather at the bustling Abu Dhabi waterfront to witness the prowess of ten elite teams battling it out in a high-stakes competition.
Elite Racing, Thrilling Competition
Abu Dhabi joins the ranks of iconic cities, such as New York, Los Angeles, Sydney, Saint-Tropez, and San Francisco, on the Season 4 calendar, solidifying its status as a sought-after destination for world-class sporting events.
Tickets are now available, with thousands of spectators expected to flock to witness the high-speed spectacle. The event will showcase world-class athletes as they navigate identical hydrofoiling F50 catamarans, capable of reaching staggering speeds of nearly 100 km/h.
Ten national teams, including Australia, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Great Britain, New Zealand, Spain, Switzerland, and the United States, will engage in a fierce two-day competition. Racing close to the shore, they will vie relentlessly for ultimate victory.
Sheikh Ahmed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, President of the Emirates Modern Sailing and Rowing Federation, expressed his delight in hosting this prestigious sailing boat race, affirming that it enhances Abu Dhabi's reputation as a premier sporting destination in the Middle East.
He lauded the event for bringing together the sailing elite, showcasing their technical prowess, modern scientific methods, and teamwork. Mubadala Investment Company, the event's Title Partner, and Global Series Partner of the Inspire Program, will be championing STEM education and inclusivity.
The Inspire initiative has already engaged over 15,483 young people globally, surpassing its target of 10,000 young people by 2025 ahead of schedule. With Mubadala's backing, SailGP Inspire is now ambitiously striving to engage 25,000 young minds by the end of 2025.
As the countdown to the Abu Dhabi Sail Grand Prix begins, anticipation is building for this remarkable event that promises to leave an indelible mark on the world of water racing. Grab your tickets and be part of history in the making as Abu Dhabi prepares to host this spectacular display of skill, speed, and sportsmanship.
