In a landmark move that blends star power with high-performance sport, Hollywood actors Hugh Jackman and Ryan Reynolds have officially joined the ownership group of Australia’s SailGP team, marking their first major investment in Australian sport.
The announcement comes as the SailGP league, often described as "Formula One on water", continues to captivate international audiences with its high-speed, high-drama racing. The Australian team — a three-time SailGP champion — will now race under the new title of the BONDS Flying Roos, following a title sponsorship agreement with iconic Australian underwear brand BONDS.
The deal was revealed ahead of the New York leg of the global SailGP series, where the newly rebranded F50 catamaran will race with the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyline as its dramatic backdrop. The timing signals a bold new chapter for the team as it aims to expand its international fanbase and strengthen the league’s entertainment credentials.
Joining Jackman and Reynolds in the ownership group is Tom Slingsby, the Olympic gold medallist who also serves as the team’s driver and CEO. Slingsby has been instrumental in steering Australia’s dominance in SailGP, having led the team to three out of the first four championship titles and currently holding a one-point lead in the ongoing fifth season.
The addition of Jackman and Reynolds — both global icons known not only for their box office hits but also for their passion for sport — brings significant visibility to the SailGP circuit and underlines a growing trend of celebrity investment in elite-level sports. Their venture into sailing follows Reynolds’ prior successful co-ownership of Wrexham AFC, a Welsh football club that rose to international fame under his and actor Rob McElhenney’s leadership.
“We’re thrilled to be joining this incredible team,” said Reynolds in a joint statement with Jackman. “SailGP represents the kind of innovation, speed, and international excitement that aligns perfectly with the way we want to connect with fans and communities.”
This development also cements SailGP’s evolution into a commercially vibrant and globally followed league, with 10 of the 12 teams now privately owned. For the Australian contingent, the blend of elite sport, commercial backing, and entertainment star power sets the stage for what could be the most dynamic season yet.
Fans can catch the action live and exclusive on Fox Sports via Kayo Sports and Foxtel as the BONDS Flying Roos debut their new look in New York this weekend.
