SSL Gold Cup 2026 to be held in Rio de Janeiro

The 2026 SSL Gold Cup, described as the ‘Copa do Mundo da Vela’, is scheduled to take place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The competition will feature 40 national teams competing in the 2016 Olympic sailing area, with the Race Village located at AXIA Marina da Glória.

The event utilizes a unique format where four teams race against each other in rounds. Through the quarterfinals, 16 teams will compete across four groups, with the top two from each group progressing. To maintain competitive tension, double points are awarded on the final day of each round.

All teams will compete using identical SSL 47 yachts to ensure that sailor skill and crewwork determine the outcome rather than boat design. The competition includes participants such as the Bermuda national team and a Brazilian team led by Robert Scheidt.