The 37th edition of sailing’s America’s Cup has arrived in Barcelona, bringing together the world’s best yachtsmen, cutting-edge design, and technology. This prestigious international sports trophy features five teams from Italy, the United States, Britain, Switzerland, and France, competing over the coming weeks to challenge the reigning champion, Emirates Team New Zealand, for the Auld Mug. After the opening races, the British team Ineos currently leads the standings. As the defending champion, Team New Zealand has chosen Barcelona’s choppy waters as the venue and has helped establish the rules and boat design for this edition. They have also secured a guaranteed spot in the final to be held in October.
This edition of the America’s Cup showcases the incredible advancements in sailing technology. The boats used in this competition, called AC75s, have a futuristic design that looks more like a spacecraft than a traditional sailboat. These 75-foot monohulls feature recognizable components such as the rudder, mast, mainsail, and jib, but the most striking feature is the two hydrofoils attached to winglike appendages on either side. These hydrofoils enable the boats to sail with the majority of their hulls above the water, reaching speeds of up to 50 knots per hour (92 kph/57.5 mph). The AC75s are crewed by eight sailors, with two helmsmen taking turns steering and two trimmers. Instead of grinders, these boats are equipped with four cyclists, known as “cyclors,” who pedal to power the hydraulic mechanisms needed to trim the sails and rotate the mast.
Emirates Team New Zealand, the two-time defending champion, is undoubtedly the team to beat in this competition. They have won the America’s Cup in 1995, 2000, 2017, and 2021. Led by skipper Peter Burling, who helped the team secure victory in the previous two editions, they have earned respect for their daring boat designs and flawless execution. However, the challengers this year are formidable. Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli Team from Italy, INEOS Britannia from Britain, NYYC American Magic from the United States, Alinghi Red Bull Racing from Switzerland, and Orient Express Racing Team from France are all determined to claim the title.
The format of the competition consists of a round-robin stage, which will eliminate the weakest challenger by September 8th. The remaining four teams will then compete in two playoff series to determine which boat will face New Zealand in a best-of-13 series starting on October 12th. This year’s event also includes a new Women’s America’s Cup and a youth competition, showcasing the commitment to diversity and inclusivity in the sport.
Barcelona was chosen as the venue for this edition of the America’s Cup to ensure a large turnout and economic impact. The previous regatta in New Zealand was held during the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in limited crowds and a lack of the usual glamour associated with the event. However, Barcelona expects to attract approximately 2.5 million tourists and generate over a billion euros for the city. Despite some concerns about overtourism and rising rents, the event promises to be a grand spectacle, with fashion and luxury goods designer Louis Vuitton returning as the official sponsor of the race. The trophy itself is even secured in a custom Louis Vuitton case when it travels.
In conclusion, the 37th edition of the America’s Cup in Barcelona showcases the pinnacle of sailing technology and skill. The AC75s, with their futuristic design and hydrofoils, are pushing the boundaries of what is possible on the water. While Emirates Team New Zealand remains the team to beat, the challengers from Italy, Britain, the United States, Switzerland, and France are determined to take home the coveted Auld Mug. With its stunning location, economic impact, and inclusion of new competitions, this edition of the America’s Cup promises to be an unforgettable event.
