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Sarasota Powerboat Grand Prix Canceled for 2025 Amid Construction and Budget Concerns

| Suncoast Post Staff |

The Sarasota Powerboat Grand Prix, a hallmark event since 1986, will not take place in 2025. Organizers, Powerboat P1, have decided to pause the event due to budgetary constraints and uncertainties stemming from ongoing construction related to The Bay’s master plan, which affects key areas like the Van Wezel parking lot and Centennial Park.

Thomas Covington, Commercial Director for Powerboat P1, expressed gratitude for the longstanding support from Visit Sarasota, emphasizing the city’s significance in offshore racing. He stated, “We feel scaling down the event would not do justice to the legacy Sarasota has built over the years.”

Pete Harvey, Director of Sports for Visit Sarasota County, acknowledged the event’s impact over nearly four decades, bringing excitement, economic benefits, and international recognition to the area. He conveyed understanding of Powerboat P1’s decision and optimism for the event’s return in the future.

Powerboat Grand Prix

Historically, the Sarasota Powerboat Grand Prix has supported local organizations, including Suncoast Charities for Children. This 501(c)(3) organization provides funding to six area non-profits offering programs and services to over 8,000 children, teens, and adults with special needs. Beneficiaries include Children First, The Florida Center for Early Childhood, The Haven, Loveland Center, Special Olympics Florida-Sarasota County, and Venice Challenger Baseball.

Visit Sarasota County

Suncoast Charities for Children organizes various fundraising events throughout the year, such as the Thunder By The Bay Music & Motorcycle Festival, Suncoast Summer Fest, and the Holiday Boat Parade of Lights. These events are crucial in generating financial support for the charity’s initiatives.

While the pause of the Sarasota Powerboat Grand Prix in 2025 is a setback, both organizers and community partners remain hopeful for its return in 2026, continuing the tradition of supporting local charities and contributing to the vibrancy of the Sarasota community.

Photos from Sarasota Powerboat Grand Prix

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