38th America’s Cup: INEOS Britannia Named Challenger of Record, Plans for AC75 Class and Future Regattas

INEOS Britannia Designated Challenger of Record for AC38

The Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron (RNZYS) along with Emirates Team New Zealand has formally accepted a Notice of Challenge for the 38th America’s Cup (AC38) from the Royal Yacht Squadron Limited, represented by INEOS Britannia. This declaration confirms INEOS Britannia as the Challenger of Record for the forthcoming event. Both parties are now collaborating to build upon the achievements of the 37th America’s Cup, which is scheduled for 2024 under the Louis Vuitton banner.

The challenge was acknowledged promptly after Emirates Team New Zealand’s AC75 sailed across the finish line on October 19th. This signifies the continuation of the enduring partnership between the RNZYS and the Royal Yacht Squadron Limited, the pioneering yacht club that presented the America’s Cup trophy over 173 years ago. The two organizations are now concentrating on further enhancing the groundwork established during the 37th America’s Cup.

Ivo Rovira / America’s Cup

Essential Agreements for AC38

Several significant agreements have been reached for the 38th America’s Cup:

The AC75 class will continue to be utilized, with teams limited to constructing only one new AC75 for AC38.

The Crew Nationality rule from AC37 will persist, though the Emerging Nations provisions will be reassessed.

The AC38 Match is planned to occur within three years following the conclusion of AC37, with the venue to be revealed within eight months after the final race of AC37.

There will be restrictions regarding the sailing and testing of AC75 and AC40 yachts, which include a 12-month prohibition on AC75 sailing post-AC37, except for Preliminary Regattas, and limitations on the number of sailing days.

Both the Defender and the Challenger of Record (COR) are also investigating additional cost-reduction strategies, such as budgets and carbon caps, to enhance the sustainability and commercial viability of the competition.

Ricardo Pinto / America’s Cup

Preliminary Regattas and Future Plans

There is a mutual goal to augment the number of Preliminary Regattas throughout the AC38 cycle, featuring races on both AC40 and AC75 yachts. These regattas are expected to include a combination of fleet racing and match racing formats, providing more frequent competitive chances for teams.

Furthermore, both the Defender and COR are dedicated to the ongoing success of the Women’s and Youth America’s Cup events, introduced in AC37. These initiatives are anticipated to significantly contribute to broadening the global appeal of the America’s Cup.

Additional information regarding the event’s schedule, location, and other particulars will be announced in due course.

Ian Roman / America’s Cup

Looking Ahead to AC38

The 38th America’s Cup is already poised to be a much-anticipated event, with both the Defender and Challenger of Record aiming to expand the competition’s international presence. The third generation of AC75 yachts, combined with the unmatched broadcast reach of the 37th America’s Cup in Barcelona, is expected to further enhance the prominence of this esteemed event.

As preparations for AC38 progress, the sailing community eagerly awaits further announcements relating to the event’s format, venue, and participating teams.

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