Italy changes club for 38th America’s Cup

The historic “Italia,” the oldest sailing club in Naples and one of the longest-standing in the Mediterranean, will launch the challenge to the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron for the 38th America’s Cup, representing Luna Rossa.

For the upcoming edition of the Cup, which will be held in the Neapolitan capital in 2027, the Italian challenger has established a partnership with the Circolo del Remo e della Vela Italia, founded in 1889.

This choice reflects the team’s strategic vision, which since its founding in 1997 has not wished to tie itself to a single yacht club, instead promoting rotation among several major institutions across their country.

“For the first time in 176 years of history, the America’s Cup is being held in Italy, in Naples,” said Patrizio Bertelli, President of Luna Rossa. “For this reason, after three consecutive editions in collaboration with the Circolo della Vela Sicilia, it felt natural to be represented by a yacht club that, in addition to enjoying an extraordinary international reputation, also has a profound connection with the city.”

Agostino Randazzo, President of the Circolo della Vela Sicilia. added, “Seeing the burgee of the Circolo della Vela Sicilia flying on Luna Rossa has been a source of great pride and emotion for me and for all our members. It has truly been a privilege to stand alongside such an extraordinary team as Luna Rossa, capable of bringing Italy to the highest international levels in sailing.”

Roberto Mottola di Amato, President of the Circolo del Remo e della Vela Italia, commented: “We are extremely honored to represent, alongside the Luna Rossa team, our Club “Italia” and our Country in the first-ever America’s Cup held in Italy and Naples. This collaboration is also a unique opportunity to inspire our young Cadets and Athletes, who will be able to experience up close the thrill and commitment of a challenge at the highest level, through their own Club, fueling their passion and their dreams.”

Details: https://www.americascup.com/

No entries have yet been submitted for the 38th America’s Cup as Defender New Zealand works with the Challenger of Record from Great Britain to organize the event. The two teams have agreed on some details with the venue moved to Naples, Italy after Barcelona, Spain declined hosting another edition. Racing will be in the spring and summer of 2027.

Source: LR