Halifax SailGP Insights: Disappointment and Hope for 2026 Growth

Disappointment in Halifax for SailGP as 2024 Event is Cancelled

SailGP , the international sailing competition , will not be returning to Halifax in 2024 despite the success of its Canadian debut last month . The news was confirmed by Sail Nova Scotia , who expressed disappointment in not being able to secure Halifax as a venue for Season 5 . However , the organization is hopeful for a return in 2026 when they plan to expand on the success of this year 's event.

Sail Nova Scotia , the host organization for the event , had initially signed a three - year agreement with SailGP for races in Halifax , but the international event is not obligated to return . The competition in June had the fastest ticket sellout in SailGP 's history and attracted over 50,000 spectators to watch high - speed sailboat racing.

Local hotels in Halifax reported a 25 % increase in room bookings during the event , with 53 % of ticket holders coming from outside the region . An economic analysis is underway , but SailGP events in Season 4 contributed an average of 8.9 million US to regional economic impact.

The disappointment was echoed by Canadas SailGP team , who highlighted the success of the event in Halifax and expressed optimism for a return in Season 6 . Frank Denis , Executive Director of Sail Nova Scotia , emphasized the hard work that went into organizing the event and expressed confidence in making the 2026 event even bigger and better.

SailGP 's Chief Operating Officer , Julien di Biase , also expressed optimism about a potential return to Halifax in the future . Despite not being on the schedule for 2025 , there is hope that the competition will set sail again in Halifax , given the incredible welcome and support received during the event.

In conclusion , while Halifax may not host SailGP in 2024 , there is a strong sense of optimism and determination to bring the competition back to the region in the future . The success of this year 's event has laid the groundwork for even greater achievements in 2026 , with hopes of expanding on the unforgettable experience created for the city and its residents.