SailGP, the prestigious competitive sailing circuit founded by Larry Ellison and Sir Russell Coutts, has officially entered a multiyear agreement for its broadcasting rights with CBS Sports. This renewal, extending through 2027, marks a significant milestone for the championship, promising an unprecedented level of coverage and solidifying its presence within the mainstream sports landscape. The partnership aims to bring the exhilarating world of high-speed foiling catamarans to a broader audience, capitalizing on SailGP's growing popularity and record viewership.
The roots of SailGP trace back to 2018 when Oracle founder Larry Ellison, a passionate competitive sailor himself, teamed up with world champion yachtsman Sir Russell Coutts. Their vision was to transform sailing races into an annual, thrilling spectacle, moving beyond the occasional, niche events that previously characterized the sport. Coutts has since served as the CEO, guiding the circuit's development and expansion. CBS Sports has been a steadfast partner since SailGP's inaugural season in 2019, providing a platform for the championship's growth.
The newly announced deal is notable for being the first multiyear agreement in SailGP's history with CBS Sports. While the financial specifics remain undisclosed, the agreement guarantees more than 50 hours of annual coverage for the highly anticipated Rolex SailGP Championship. This extensive broadcast commitment reflects the confidence both parties have in the circuit's ability to attract and engage viewers. Dan Weinberg, Executive VP of Programming for CBS Sports, expressed enthusiasm for the continued collaboration, emphasizing the network's dedication to delivering electrifying, high-speed racing to fans across the U.S.
SailGP's 2026 season is scheduled to commence on January 18 with the Oracle Perth Sail Grand Prix, presented by KPMG. CBS will begin its coverage at 3 p.m., bringing the fast-paced action directly to homes. The championship has already demonstrated its strong appeal; last November's SailGP event, 'The Race to Abu Dhabi,' garnered nearly 3.5 million viewers on CBS, setting a new record for sailing competition viewership. This impressive figure underscores the circuit's increasing traction and its potential to capture a significant audience share in the competitive sports broadcasting market.
Sir Russell Coutts highlighted that this landmark multiyear extension serves as a powerful affirmation of SailGP's sustained expansion in the U.S. and its global momentum. He praised CBS Sports as an outstanding partner, instrumental in introducing high-performance racing to millions of new fans. The enhanced coverage ensures that SailGP will continue to connect with mainstream sports audiences, showcasing one of the world's fastest-growing sports properties. This increased stability and flexibility provided by the deal will also enable SailGP to pursue further expansion, including welcoming new teams into the fold.
In a testament to its expanding appeal, SailGP has been actively working with investors to support its country teams and finance the venture. This initiative has drawn considerable attention, including celebrity backing. Last year, prominent figures Hugh Jackman and Ryan Reynolds joined the ownership group of the Bonds Flying Roos, SailGP’s Australian team, adding star power to the championship. Their involvement, alongside the renewed broadcast deal, signals a vibrant future for SailGP as it continues to elevate competitive sailing on the global stage and attract a diverse fan base.
The multiyear broadcasting renewal with CBS Sports is a pivotal development for SailGP, providing a robust platform for growth and an opportunity to further embed competitive sailing into the consciousness of sports enthusiasts worldwide. With expanded coverage and strategic partnerships, SailGP is poised to build on its recent successes and reach new heights in viewership and popularity, cementing its status as a premier global sports property.