Leads the way in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: Rio de Janeiro
The sailing world is abuzz with excitement as the SSL Gold Cup, a fusion of sailing, spectacle, and elite sport, is set to return in 2026. The second edition of this prestigious event will take place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from November 18 to December 13.
The official announcement of the venue was made at Marina da Gloria, the same location where the Olympic sailing events were previously hosted in 2016. The event promises to be a grand affair, with the presence of Rio's vice-mayor, Eduardo Cavaliere; the Secretary of Sports, Guilherme Schleder; the CEO of the CBVela, Marco Aurelio de Sa Ribeiro; and the Executive Director of World Sailing, David Graham, all confirming their attendance.
Marina da Gloria will also host a visitor village and live broadcasts on digital platforms, ensuring that the public can be a part of the action. World Sailing has granted the SSL Gold Cup "Special Event" status, further emphasising its significance in the sailing calendar.
The SSL Gold Cup is modeled after the FIFA World Cup, with more than 65 countries confirming participation. In fact, 40 nations from five continents will compete in the SSL Gold Cup, making it a truly global event. The continental qualification for the SSL Gold Cup will be held in Rio de Janeiro from November 10 to 16, 2026.
The inaugural SSL Gold Cup was held in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria in 2023, and the second edition will once again take place in Guanabara Bay, Rio de Janeiro. The event will include the final phase of the competition, and the SSL Gold Cup organisers in Rio are yet to be announced.
Spain currently holds the runner-up position in the SSL Gold Cup, having lost the final to Hungary in the Canary Islands in 2023. The SSL Gold Cup promises higher global viewing figures than the first edition, which reached over three million live views. With the event's return to Rio de Janeiro, spectators can expect a thrilling display of sailing prowess.
The official event logo for the SSL Gold Cup was unveiled at the announcement, signifying the countdown to this much-anticipated event. The SSL Gold Cup in 2026 is set to be a spectacular showcase of elite sailing, promising an unforgettable experience for both participants and spectators alike.
