The APEX Bermuda Sail Grand Prix marks a significant return for the international fleet to the Great Sound, a venue known for its turquoise waters and unpredictable wind conditions. This event is particularly poignant for the NorthStar SailGP Team (Canada), as it represents the location where the team debuted four years ago. As the fleet battles for season championship points, the Bermuda event serves as a high-stakes precursor to the upcoming summer leg, specifically the highly anticipated home race for the Canadians in Halifax.
The Apex Group Bermuda Sail Grand Prix (May 9–10, 2026) is the fifth event of the 2026 Rolex SailGP Championship. As the fleet returns to the Great Sound for the fourth time, the competition is defined by a “weekend of two halves,” where teams must adapt to drastically different weather patterns. With the BONDS Flying Roos (Australia) currently leading the season standings, the Bermuda event is a critical juncture for middle-of-the-pack teams like Canada and Switzerland to secure points before the European leg begins.
Five Key Things to Know:
- Teams on Fire vs. Under Pressure: The BONDS Flying Roos (Australia) lead the championship by seven points over the reigning title holders, Emirates GBR. Meanwhile, teams like NorthStar (Canada) and Red Bull Italy are under significant pressure to climb the leaderboard as the season reaches its one-third mark.
- The “Chaos” Factor: Meteorologists predict a “fast and stable” Saturday with solid foiling conditions, followed by a “patchy and chaotic” Sunday. Shifting winds and passing trade wind clouds are expected to level the playing field, rewarding the most adaptable crews.
- Significant Roster Changes: The fleet will look different this weekend as the Black Foils (NZL) are sidelined due to boat damage. Their athletes have been loaned out, with strategist Liv Mackay joining France and grinder Marcus Hansen moving to ROCKWOOL Racing (Denmark).
- Historical Precedent: Only three teams have ever won in Bermuda: Australia, Great Britain, and Spain’s Los Gallos, who are the defending Bermuda champions and currently on a hot streak.
- Punchy Practice Session: Due to a heavy wind forecast for Friday’s practice, the league has already decided to split the fleet into two groups and mandate the smallest 18m wings, heightening the risk of dramatic capsizes before the official racing even begins.
Highlights
- Venue Dynamics: Bermuda’s Great Sound is celebrated for providing some of the closest and most intense racing of the season, with F50 catamarans reaching speeds near 100 km/h.
- Canadian Momentum: For the NorthStar SailGP Team, the weekend is a critical opportunity to build momentum and refine performance before their home event in Halifax next month.
- Strategic Partnerships: The event highlights the team’s connection to Bermuda-based partner Butterfield, reinforcing the deep ties between the team and the island.
- Spectator Experience: Fans can expect dramatic mark roundings and high-speed maneuvers. The “stunning backdrop” and challenging conditions make it a favorite for both athletes and viewers.
- Road to Halifax: The preview underscores the growing excitement for the Canada Sail Grand Prix | Halifax, including upcoming fan opportunities like a meet-and-greet on the Halifax waterfront on June 17.
Crew List:
- Giles Scott / Driver
- Annie Haeger / Strategist
- Paul ‘CJ’ Campbell James / Wing Trimmer
- Billy Gooderham / Flight Controller
- Tom Ramshaw / Grinder (G2)
- Alex Sinclair / Grinder (G1)
- Tim Hornsby / Grinder (G1)
- Nicolas Rolaz / Reserve
- Ali Ten Hove / Reserve
How to watch the APEX Bermuda Sail Grand Prix in Canada © NorthStar SailGP Team
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