ICOMIA Podcast Episode 16 features Antonio Alquézar, Team Principal of SailGP Spain, the reigning world champions.
The ICOMIA Podcast is sponsored by AkzoNobel
Table of Contents
Alquézar shares how SailGP’s unique blend of innovation, sustainability and entertainment is reshaping elite sailing—and inspiring a new generation to engage with boating.
Why It Matters
SailGP is expanding the sport’s reach beyond traditional audiences. With around 25 million viewers per Grand Prix and 65% of fans under 33, the league is introducing sailing to younger, more diverse demographics, building the foundation for future participation and industry growth.
A Level Playing Field
Every team competes using identical F50 foiling catamarans, with simultaneous upgrades such as new T-foils. This ensures that results are driven by skill, tactics and teamwork—not budget.
The result: consistently close racing and compelling storytelling that captivates fans and media alike.
Efficiency and Safety
Centralised technical and logistics teams manage global transport, maintenance and safety across the fleet.
This streamlined system reduces costs, minimises risk and shortens turnaround times between events—an operational model that other sectors of the marine industry can learn from.
Sustainability and Community
Through its Impact League, SailGP rewards teams for initiatives in sustainability, inclusion and youth development. Each event leaves a local legacy.
Spain’s Foiling Base alone trained over 4,000 young sailors last year.
Global Growth
With plans to grow from 12 to up to 16 teams and expand the calendar to 20 events, SailGP’s commercial momentum continues to accelerate.
High-profile investors, including Anne Hathaway, Sebastian Vettel and Kylian Mbappé underscore its crossover appeal.
As Alquézar puts it: “We fight on the water… but off the water we all work together.” SailGP’s collaborative, sustainable model offers a blueprint for the wider marine industry.
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