America's Cup

The America’s Cup is the oldest trophy in international sport, first raced in 1851. It’s a one-on-one sailing match between the reigning champion (the Defender) and a Challenger. Only four nations have ever won it, which is why it's considered one of the hardest titles to claim.

It isn’t a typical regatta. The Defender automatically qualifies for the final match, while all other teams must compete in a Challenger series (historically the Louis Vuitton Cup or Prada Cup). The first team to file an official challenge becomes the Challenger of Record, negotiating rules with the Defender on behalf of all challengers.

Because the Defender sets the class of boat. The Cup is as much a technology race as a sailing contest, which has led to dramatic shifts—from 19th-century schooners, to J-Class giants, to 12-Metres, to today’s 50-knot foiling AC75s. Innovation is baked into the DNA of the event.

A major governance change announced in 2025. Instead of the winner controlling almost everything, competing teams now sit on a shared board that agrees on key decisions such as rules, scheduling and venue selection. Supporters say it will secure the Cup’s long-term future; critics argue it dilutes its historic winner-takes-all identity.

The 38th America’s Cup will take place in Naples, Italy, in spring–summer 2027. Emirates Team New Zealand defend their title, while Athena Racing (Royal Yacht Squadron) leads the challenge. It will be the third consecutive Cup sailed in AC75 foiling monohulls.