DUBAI: The UAE is set to play a pivotal role in Sail Grand Prix’s Season 5, which begins in Dubai on Nov. 23 before drawing to a close in Abu Dhabi next year.

Ahead of the new season, Arab News spoke to Andrew Thompson, SailGP’s managing director, who discussed the importance of the Middle East market, the introduction of SailGP’s first female driver, and what fans can expect from the most entertaining race on water.

What was the reason behind choosing Dubai for the season-opening event?

The UAE has become one of the most important global sporting destinations, with multiple high-profile events held consistently across the country and wider Middle East region. For SailGP, it’s imperative that our calendar includes key locations such as Dubai in order to engage as wide a fan base as possible.

Having held events in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi previously, we are aware of the appetite for sailing in the UAE, and the enthusiasm that those in attendance have for our races.

UAE weather in November provides great conditions to host an event and the port of Mina Rashid provides the perfect setup for a tight racecourse for exciting racing.

The UAE will also play an important role in the new season as both the starting and finishing point, and we are delighted about that.

Mina Rashid will play host to the event for the third consecutive year. What makes the location so special?

Mina Rashid is the ideal setting for a SailGP event, from the perspective of both competitors and spectators alike. The tight racecourse and very deep water close to the shoreline ensure hugely competitive action with boats coming within touching distance of the stadium, which makes for great viewing for all the fans on the water’s edge.

Our previous two events at Mina Rashid were a huge success, with the closest finish in SailGP history last season, and our athletes have told us they are excited to return. Mina Rashid is also home to the P&O Marina’s Sailing Academy, which is a home for watersports designed to introduce people of all ages to the joy of sailing.

How important is the Middle East market for SailGP?

Very important, as evidenced by the fact that the 2024-25 season both starts and finishes in the UAE. Our fan base in the region has grown considerably over the past three seasons and we look forward to continuing growth of the Sail Grand Prix in the region as a long-term established event.

Dubai is the home of both Emirates and P&O Marinas, who along with Dubai Sports Council, are playing a pivotal role in helping us grow the sport across the UAE and engage a brand-new audience. We are now approaching our third Dubai event, and the two previous editions have been a resounding success from the perspective of all involved.

We’re equally delighted to be working closely with Mubadala and Abu Dhabi Sports Council. Their commitment to SailGP is fantastic and we look forward to harnessing a mutually beneficial long-term working relationship.

Our inaugural Abu Dhabi event earlier this year was a fantastic occasion, and we are excited about returning for the 2024-25 season final next year.

The upcoming season features the addition of the Mubadala Brazil Team, who have announced the first-ever female (Martine Grael) SailGP driver. How important is that for the evolution of the brand?

It’s hugely significant, and fantastic news. In 2021, SailGP introduced the Women’s Pathway as part of its Better Sport strategy to accelerate inclusion, inspire change, and provide opportunities at the elite level of sailing.

The Spain event in 2021 (Season 2) was a milestone in SailGP’s Women’s Pathway. It was the first time the teams raced with six (or four in light wind configuration) athletes on board, with every team including a female athlete on the F50 for racing.

It will take time to close the gap in experience between women and men; we are proud of being a sport that has women and men competing alongside each other at the highest level in sport.

Martine is a decorated sailor — two-time Olympic gold medal winner — and a fantastic leader. Developments such as appointing her as driver of the Brazilian team are a step in the right direction, but there is still work to do.

What would you say would attract people to come to the SailGP events?

SailGP features fast boats racing close to shore between 11 rival nations in short-form 15-minute races across the weekend. As a spectator in Dubai, you can see the full racecourse from the comfort of your seat while almost being able to reach out and touch the boats as they fly past.

SailGP’s top athletes race identical boats, which fly faster than the wind: high-tech, hydrofoiling F50 catamarans at speeds approaching 100 kph, which is a sight to behold. Our events combine elite-level sporting action and a first-class hospitality and entertainment schedule, and as the season-opener, this is one not to be missed. If you like racing and entertainment by the water, it really is the perfect way to spend an afternoon.