Teams Unite for America’s Cup Future in Historic Partnership

As the countdown to the 38th America’s Cup continues, a significant development has emerged. Five teams have formed the new America’s Cup Partnership (ACP), aiming to shape the future of this prestigious sailing competition. The announcement comes just six weeks before the entry window for the 2027 event closes, solidifying the direction of the tournament.

The founding teams of the ACP include Team New Zealand, Athena Racing from Great Britain, Luna Rossa from Italy, Team Alinghi from Switzerland, and K-Challenge from France. This collaboration represents a historic moment, marking the first time in the event’s 174-year history that competing teams have united under a shared governance and commercial structure.

The formation of the ACP follows a critical agreement made in August between defender Team New Zealand and challenger of record Athena Racing. This Protocol established the framework for the upcoming America’s Cup, scheduled to take place in Naples, Italy, and set the stage for the ACP’s creation.

The entry period for new teams to join the ACP remains open until January 31, 2026. The founding teams are expected to provide further details about the partnership during an announcement on January 21, 2024, in Naples, where the dates for the America’s Cup Match will also be revealed.

Grant Dalton, chief executive officer of Team New Zealand, expressed optimism about the collaboration, stating that five challengers represent a healthy number for the competition. He emphasized that the ACP aims to “preserve what makes the America’s Cup extraordinary while building a sustainable model that benefits everyone who shares our passion for this great competition.” Dalton believes this partnership will secure the America’s Cup’s position as a leader in innovation and professional sport for years to come.

Sir Ben Ainslie, principal of Athena Racing, echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the ACP will ensure the America’s Cup continues to be “the ultimate proving ground for the world’s best sailors and technological advancements.” Ainslie noted the importance of maintaining the Cup’s tradition as a driver of innovation while providing the stability necessary to expand its audience.

Max Sirena, chief executive officer of Luna Rossa, called the ACP a “historic moment” for the competition. He stated, “Luna Rossa has chosen to join a project aimed at ensuring stability, sustainability, and continuity for the America’s Cup, while respecting its values and its capacity for innovation.” Sirena believes this decision is a responsible choice for the sport, its fans, and future generations of Italian sailors.

Ernesto Bertarelli, owner of Team Alinghi, emphasized the collective commitment among the teams to elevate sailing on the global sporting stage. He remarked that the partnership would create a more transparent and collaborative structure, ensuring the iconic competition thrives for generations.

Stephan Kandler, co-chief executive officer of K-Challenge, added that France’s rich history in sailing and the America’s Cup motivates them to take a leading role in the ACP. He views this as a fantastic opportunity for the event and its teams to grow alongside other leading sports properties.

The key features of the ACP signal a new era for the America’s Cup, aiming to enhance its commercial viability while fostering a spirit of cooperation among competitors. As the sailing world watches closely, the formation of this partnership could reshape the future of one of sports’ oldest traditions.