The customary European element of the 2013 Series kicks off in Porto, Portugal, where the Extreme 40s will race on the most compact racecourse they have ever sailed on. In 2012, an estimated 66,000 spectators thronged around all sides of the River Douro stadium on both the Porto and Gaia sides as well as on top of the iconic Dom Luis I Bridge, to watch the Extreme 40s in their Portuguese debut – bigger crowds then the Extreme Sailing Series had ever witnessed.

Racing in Porto, 2012 © Lloyd Images 

About Porto
At the mouth of the Douro river, the hilly city of Porto, known as ‘Oporto’ in English, is one of Europe’s most charismatic and undiscovered cities. This ancient port, which in recent years has undergone a remarkable regeneration, is steeped in history and tradition, best known for its narrow medieval alleyways, baroque churches, outstanding monuments by renowned architects, and of course the famous Porto wine.

Porto is the second largest city in Portugal with a population of 1.3 million, located along the famous Douro river estuary. Porto is one of the oldest European centres and a registered UNESCO site. Rivalling Lisbon in its economic power, Porto is home to some outstanding architecture including the Romanesque Cathedral. Like any other European city, football is the most popular sport for Porto and the city is also is home to northern Portugal's only cricket club! In 1958 and 1960 its streets hosted the Formula One Portuguese Grand Prix, in addition to the World Touring Car Championship.