Teams Unite for Historic America’s Cup Partnership Ahead of 2027

The landscape of the 38th America’s Cup is taking shape as five teams have officially formed a new partnership called the America’s Cup Partnership (ACP). This significant development, announced on Monday, marks the first time in the event’s 174-year history that competing teams have come together under a unified governance and commercial framework. The founding teams include Team New Zealand, Great Britain’s Athena Racing, Italy’s Luna Rossa, Swiss entry Team Alinghi, and France’s K-Challenge.

The announcement follows a crucial Protocol agreement reached in August between Team New Zealand, the current defender, and Athena Racing, the challenger of record. This agreement established the terms for the upcoming competition in Naples and laid the groundwork for the ACP. The entry period for teams wishing to join the ACP remains open until January 31, 2026, as they prepare for the competition scheduled for 2027.

Setting the Stage for Innovation and Sustainability

The formation of the ACP is seen as a pivotal moment for the future of the America’s Cup. Grant Dalton, Chief Executive Officer of Team New Zealand, expressed optimism about the five founding challengers, stating it represents a robust field for the prestigious event. Dalton emphasized the need to “preserve what makes the America’s Cup extraordinary” while simultaneously creating a sustainable model that benefits all stakeholders involved.

During a press conference, Dalton noted, “We are securing the position of the America’s Cup at the pinnacle of innovation and professional sport for decades to come.”

In a similar vein, Sir Ben Ainslie, team principal of Athena Racing, highlighted the ACP’s role in maintaining the America’s Cup as “the ultimate proving ground for the world’s best sailors and technological advancements.” He stated, “It allows us to continue pushing the boundaries of naval architecture and sailing technology, maintaining the Cup’s tradition as a catalyst for innovation while providing the stability needed to grow our audience.”

A Collective Commitment to the Future

The sentiment of commitment to the America’s Cup was echoed by other team leaders. Max Sirena, Chief Executive Officer of Luna Rossa, described the agreement as a “historic moment” for the competition. He explained that Luna Rossa’s involvement aims to ensure stability, sustainability, and continuity while respecting the event’s core values.

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

From the French perspective, Stephan Kandler, Co-Chief Executive Officer of K-Challenge, expressed enthusiasm about France’s legacy in sailing. “It is a fantastic opportunity for the event and the teams to grow it at the same level as other leading sports properties,” Kandler remarked.

As the five founding teams prepare to reveal further details about the ACP on January 21 in Naples, the sailing world anticipates the announcement of key dates for the America’s Cup Match. The establishment of the ACP signals a new era for the America’s Cup, steering it toward a sustainable future while continuing its legacy as a premier sailing competition.