Major Overhaul for America’s Cup with Equal Stakes and Inclusivity

The upcoming 38th America’s Cup, scheduled for July 2027 in Naples, is set to undergo significant reforms aimed at enhancing inclusivity and competitiveness among teams. The new protocol establishes equal stakes for all participants, introduces a cost cap of €75 million, and aims for a more regular racing schedule, all while ensuring the event remains at the forefront of sailing innovation.

The defender of the America’s Cup, the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, represented by Team New Zealand, and the Challenger of Record, the Royal Yacht Squadron Ltd, represented by Athena Racing, have signed the new protocol. According to Bertie Bicket from RYS Ltd, the collaboration involved extensive negotiation and goodwill among all parties. “We have worked closely over the past nine months to bring about this paradigm shift to the future structure of the America’s Cup,” Bicket stated.

Transformative Changes in Governance and Racing

Central to the new protocol is the establishment of the America’s Cup Partnership (ACP), which will govern the event. This partnership aims to give all participating teams equal management rights, a move hailed as the “boldest change in 174 years of the Cup.” Sir Ben Ainslie, chief executive and team principal of Athena Racing, described this moment as “seismic” and emphasized the goal of making the event more inclusive and financially sustainable.

The changes will also allow for more predictable scheduling, with plans to shift the America’s Cup to a bi-annual event. Jay Cross, commodore of the New York Yacht Club, expressed support for modernizing the Cup, stating, “we are completely supportive of the move to modernise the oldest sporting trophy in the world.”

Grant Dalton, chief executive of Team New Zealand, highlighted the importance of continuity in the event’s structure. “Although the America’s Cup is the oldest trophy in international sport, its Achilles’ heel has always been its lack of continuity,” he noted. The new governance model aims to change that, ensuring collective stewardship among teams while respecting the Deed of Gift.

Inclusivity and Sustainability at the Forefront

The protocol also prioritizes inclusivity by requiring at least one female crew member onboard each of the battery-powered AC75 yachts. This initiative aims to create pathways for women and youth in sailing, complementing existing events like the Women’s and Youth America’s Cup.

The AC75 crews will consist of five sailors, with nationality rules stipulating that two must be nationals of the competing country, while allowing up to two non-nationals. The revised racing format aims to maximize competition time, featuring a mix of match racing and fleet racing during the Louis Vuitton Cup group stage. This will determine the top four challengers who will compete in knockout rounds to face Team New Zealand in the final.

Additionally, a series of preliminary regattas are planned for 2026 and early 2027, featuring teams racing AC40 yachts, including one crewed by women and youth sailors. A final regatta in Naples will precede the Louis Vuitton Cup Challenger Selection Series.

To contain costs, all existing teams will use the same AC75 hulls from the previous America’s Cup, while new teams must acquire either an existing hull or build one to the AC37 design specifications. All hulls must meet specific construction requirements as outlined in the protocol.

This new approach will also enhance commercial and media engagement, allowing teams to carry one guest racer onboard during races. Guests will include VIPs, sponsors, and influencers, providing them with a unique perspective on the high-stakes competition.

David Blakey, commodore of the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, remarked on the significance of these changes, emphasizing the importance of developing the sport in New Zealand. “Promoting pathways for young sailors and developing the sport in New Zealand is a top priority for RNZYS, which this protocol and partnership delivers on.”

With entries opening on August 19, 2025, the 38th America’s Cup is poised to set a new standard in sailing, ensuring a more inclusive and sustainable future for one of the world’s most prestigious sporting events.