SailGP: Star-studded sailing event kicks off as crowds pack Southsea seafront - pictures

Passionate sailing fans have descended on Southsea seafront to see the start of SailGP.

Crowds have packed the venue for the start of a star-studded racing line-up. Legendary singer-songwriter Craig David and pop sensation Jess Glynne will provide the entertainment for the Emirates Great Britain Sail Grand Prix.

More than 20,000 fans are expected to watch the action over the weekend. Many were seen basking in the sunshine as they queued to get into the venue.

Thrilling action and competitive racing is promised to the crowds, with 13 identical 50ft foiling catamarans speeding across the solent and around Southsea Castle. The British date kicks off the European leg of the racing season.

the Emirates Great Britain SailGP Team is operated by Olympic sailor and majority owner Sir Ben Ainslie. Athletes for the side include Hannah Mills OBE, Dylan Fletcher MBE, Stuart Bithell MBE and Youth Sailor Kai Hockley.

After the Portsmouth leg, the teams will head to Germany, Spain, and Switzerland, with the British team currently in third place behind the Australian BONDS Flying Roos team and the Spanish Los Gallos team.

Here are a selection of pictures from the start of SailGP. The majority of images are available to purchase should you wish to do so on our Photosales section, or you can call 0330 403 0033 or email [email protected].