As Emirates Team New Zealand’s AC75 surged over the finish line in Barcelona on Saturday, 19 October, it marked not just the end of the 37th America’s Cup but the beginning of a new chapter. The Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron (RNZYS) announced it had received a formal challenge for the 38th America’s Cup from the Royal Yacht Squadron Limited (RYS), Britain’s renowned and long-standing competitor in the Cup’s storied history.
“It’s fantastic to once again have the RYS involved, considering they were the first club to present this trophy over 173 years ago, starting the legacy of the America’s Cup,” said Gillian Williams, Commodore of the RNZYS. “Alongside Emirates Team New Zealand, we’re excited to build on the strong foundation established during AC37 and work together on the details for this next event.”
The Challenge of Record and the 38th America’s Cup Protocol
With RYS as the first to lodge its challenge for AC38, it has been named the official Challenger of Record (COR), tasked with working closely with the Defender—Emirates Team New Zealand—to shape the upcoming event. Key elements of the agreement have already been outlined:
- Yacht Class and Build Restrictions: The AC75 will continue to be the class of yacht for AC38. Teams will be permitted to build just one new AC75 for the next campaign, maintaining a streamlined approach to development.
- Crew Nationality Rules: The established Crew Nationality rule from the AC37 Protocol will carry over, with Emerging Nations provisions under review to foster broader international participation.
- Timing and Venue Announcement: The AC38 Match is planned to take place within three years of the AC37 conclusion, subject to adjustments based on the event’s location in either hemisphere. The Defender is expected to announce the venue within eight months of AC37’s final race, along with a comprehensive Protocol outlining the event framework.
- Sailing and Testing Restrictions: For 12 months post-AC37, AC75s will be restricted from sailing, with an exception for any scheduled Preliminary Regattas. Additionally, there will be limitations on testing and development with a focus on “in class” AC40 yachts, setting a cap on the number of permitted AC75 sailing days.
A Strong Focus on Cost Management and Commercialisation
In an effort to manage campaign costs and keep the Cup accessible, the Defender and COR are actively considering cost-saving measures. These could include budget and carbon caps, aimed at reducing the financial and environmental footprint of each team. The plan is to explore options to commercialise the America’s Cup further, building on the success of the 37th edition, which drew significant global audiences and media interest.
A notable evolution will be an increase in Preliminary Regattas, providing more frequent and competitive events leading up to AC38. Both AC40 and AC75 formats are being considered, with a mix of fleet and match racing formats to keep the racing dynamic and engaging for spectators and teams alike.
Expanding the Women’s and Youth America’s Cup
The AC37 Women’s and Youth America’s Cup events were standout moments of the series, bringing new energy and talent to the sport. Both the Defender and COR are committed to building on this success, promising to increase opportunities and visibility for the next generation of sailors through expanded Women’s and Youth events.
Bertie Bicket, Chairman of the Royal Yacht Squadron Ltd., expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration: “We are delighted to have been accepted by the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron as the Challenger of Record for AC38. Following our successful partnership in the 37th America’s Cup, we are fully committed to encouraging more Challengers from diverse nations and expanding both the Women’s and Youth America’s Cup competitions.”
The 38th America’s Cup: Growing a Global Phenomenon
For Emirates Team New Zealand CEO Grant Dalton, the new challenge represents continuity and growth. “The 38th America’s Cup effectively started the moment we crossed the finish line in Barcelona. It’s exciting to maintain continuity with INEOS Britannia as Challenger of Record, as we work to expand the global reach and appeal of the America’s Cup,” said Dalton. “The success of the third-generation AC75s and the unprecedented broadcast impact of the 37th edition has shown the potential of this unique sporting event. We’re looking forward to unveiling future plans soon.”
Ben Ainslie, CEO and Team Principal of INEOS Britannia, echoed Dalton’s sentiments, celebrating the success of the 37th America’s Cup. “AC37 showcased the unique value of the America’s Cup as a global sporting property, both on and off the water,” he noted. “We’re committed to working with the Defender to keep building on that success and expanding the Cup’s impact through AC38 and beyond.”
With the AC38 challenge now set, the Defender and Challenger of Record will continue developing the framework for this next race. From refined yacht regulations and cost-saving initiatives to increased opportunities for rising talent, the 38th America’s Cup is poised to continue the legacy of the world’s oldest international sporting competition, pushing the boundaries of innovation and sportsmanship on the high seas.
Stay tuned for further announcements on the AC38 venue, schedule, and other details as they unfold.
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