Auckland hosts the Rolex SailGP Championship on Feb. 14–15, as the ITM New Zealand Sail Grand Prix returns to Waitematā Harbour for the second stop of the 2026 SailGP season. SailGP is an international, high-speed sailing league where teams compete in identical F50 foiling catamarans. With standardized boats and shared performance data, results depend on skill and strategy rather than equipment advantages. Events are held close to shore in “stadium-style” settings, giving spectators an up-close view. Sailing teams earn points across multiple races, with the top three advancing to a winner-takes-all final to decide the champion. Pending testing, all 13 international teams are expected to compete in Auckland. Emirates GBR are the defending champions after winning the opening event in Perth earlier this year, helmed by double Olympic gold medalist Dylan Fletcher. Australia’s BONDS Flying Roos are currently in second, with France’s DS Automobiles SailGP Team in third. Fourth and fifth places were claimed by newcomers Sweden and the United States, respectively. Hometown favorites are the New Zealand Black Foils — led by Peter Burling, Blair Tuke, and Liv Mackay — return after a collision in Perth that caused extensive hull damage. Repairs have reportedly been completed, and the team is expected to return to competition this weekend. “The collisions we saw in Perth really tested our resilience, but the response that followed was an incredible effort from the teams and SailGP Technologies to try and get the fleet back racing on the water,” said SailGP CEO and Co-founder Russell Coutts. “From pit lane repairs during the event to the global operation that’s continued since, the work behind the scenes to return these boats to full racing condition has been extraordinary. To have the full fleet back on the start line in Auckland is a testament to the skill and commitment of everyone involved. Now the focus shifts back to the racing, and with fantastic conditions expected this weekend, we’re set for another spectacular SailGP event.” Fans can watch the action live on the waterfront or via international broadcast coverage. More information is available at sailgp.com/auckland.Check out the Triton's latest issue