A radical new challenger is pushing the boundaries of what is possible in sailing as the SP80 team sets its sights on becoming the fastest sailboat in history. Designed to break the world sailing speed record under official World Sailing rules, the SP80 project aims to exceed an unprecedented 80 knots using wind power alone. The innovative craft relies on a kite-powered trimaran concept that blends cutting-edge aerodynamics with advanced hydrofoil engineering.

The SP80 boat is piloted by a single sailor, in compliance with record regulations, and uses a massive, adjustable kite inspired by paragliding and kitefoiling technology to generate propulsion. Unlike traditional sails, the kite operates at higher altitudes where winds are stronger and more stable, delivering consistent power while allowing precise control. This setup enables the boat to accelerate rapidly while maintaining stability at extreme speeds.

One of the defining features of the SP80 design is its use of super-ventilating hydrofoils. These foils are engineered to deliberately introduce air along their surfaces, reducing drag and preventing the violent vibrations that typically occur when water begins to cavitate at very high speeds. By riding on just a small portion of the foils, the trimaran minimizes water contact, allowing it to skim across the surface with remarkable efficiency.

As of early 2026, the SP80 team has already achieved speeds exceeding 58 knots, making it the second-fastest sailing craft ever recorded. The team has also surpassed the 100-kilometer-per-hour barrier, a major milestone that underscores the viability of their approach. Their ultimate goal is to eclipse the current world sailing speed record of 65.45 knots, set in 2012 by Vestas Sailrocket II.

The team plans a full record attempt beginning in September in Namibia, a location chosen for its strong, steady winds and ideal sailing conditions. According to the SP80 project’s leadership, including its CEO who also serves as one of the pilots, the pursuit is as much about precision and control as raw speed. If successful, SP80 would not only claim the title of the world’s fastest sailboat but also redefine the future of high-performance, wind-powered marine engineering.