Teams Unite for Future of America’s Cup in Historic Agreement

The future of the America’s Cup is taking shape as five prominent sailing teams have formed the America’s Cup Partnership (ACP), marking a significant shift in the competition’s governance. Announced recently, this historic agreement unites Team New Zealand, Great Britain’s Athena Racing, Italy’s Luna Rossa, Swiss entry Team Alinghi, and France’s K-Challenge under a collaborative commercial framework for the 38th America’s Cup, scheduled for 2027 in Naples, Italy.

This partnership represents the first time in the event’s 174-year history that competing teams have come together in such a manner. The decision follows the Protocol agreement reached in August between defender Team New Zealand and challenger of record Athena Racing, which established the terms for the upcoming event. The entry window for prospective challengers remains open until January 31, 2026, allowing additional teams to join the ACP.

Collaboration for Innovation and Stability

Grant Dalton, chief executive officer of Team New Zealand, expressed optimism about the future of the Cup. He stated that having five founding teams is a positive sign for competition, which aims to maintain the spirit of the America’s Cup while ensuring a sustainable model for future growth. “We are securing the position of the America’s Cup at the pinnacle of innovation and professional sport for decades to come,” he said.

Sir Ben Ainslie, principal of Athena Racing, emphasized that the ACP will serve as a critical platform for advancing sailing technology. He remarked that the partnership would keep the America’s Cup as “the ultimate proving ground for the world’s best sailors and technological advancements.” Ainslie highlighted the importance of innovation while ensuring the event remains stable and appeals to a broader audience.

Luna Rossa’s chief executive officer, Max Sirena, echoed these sentiments, calling the formation of the ACP a “historic moment” for the competition. He noted that joining this project reflects a commitment to stability, sustainability, and the core values of the America’s Cup, while also promoting innovation for future generations of sailors.

A Collective Commitment to Global Sailing

Ernesto Bertarelli, owner of Team Alinghi, described the partnership as a collective effort to elevate sailing on the global sporting stage. He stated, “By working together to create a more transparent and collaborative structure, we’re ensuring that this iconic competition will thrive for generations to come.”

Stephan Kandler, co-chief executive officer of K-Challenge, highlighted France’s rich history in sailing and its desire to be at the forefront of the ACP. He remarked, “It is a fantastic opportunity for the event and the teams to grow it at the same level as other leading sport properties.”

As the teams prepare for the next America’s Cup, they plan to unveil further details about the ACP on January 21, 2026, in Naples, where they will also announce the official dates for the match. This innovative partnership aims not only to preserve the legacy of the America’s Cup but also to enhance its position in the realm of professional sports, ensuring that it continues to inspire both competitors and fans alike.