First test for 38th America’s Cup teams

The AC40 foiling yachts will line-up for the first Preliminary Regatta of the 38th America’s Cup on May 22-24, 2026 in Cagliari, Sardinia. While recent entrants from Australia and USA will be absent, the other four challengers will race alongside the Kiwi defenders.

Eight teams will be competing as New Zealand, Great Britain, and Italy have entered two AC40s, with the second crewed by a mix of women and youth. After an eight fleet-race series, the top two teams proceed to a single match race to determine the event winner.

Cagliari will not contribute any points toward Naples 2027, nor will this preliminary regatta have any direct impact on the final standings of the 38th America’s Cup. But it will reveal where each team stand in their preparation.

Racing is planned for 3:00-5:00pm CEST (9:00-11:00am EDT). – Details and live stream

Finally: The second Preliminary Regatta for the 38th America’s Cup has (finally) been confirmed to be in 2026 on September 24-27, to be held at the Match Venue of Naples, Italy. – Full report

Chaos: Sir Ben Ainslie is concerned his court case with Sir Jim Ratcliffe could derail his bid to win the America’s Cup for Great Britain. – Full report