America’s Cup Volunteering: Naples & Sardinia Opportunities 2026-2027
The road to the ’s 38th America’s Cup in Naples, Italy, is taking shape, with Sardinia set to host the opening Preliminary Regatta in . The announcement, made in Cagliari, marks the beginning of a series of events leading up to the main competition, which will be held between .
The Preliminary Regatta, funded by the Tourism Department of the Region of Sardinia and organized in collaboration with America’s Cup Event, the Italian Government, and Sport e Salute S.p.A., will take place in the Gulf of Angels, off the coast of Cagliari – the home base of Luna Rossa. From , five teams are currently slated to compete, each utilizing up to two one-design foiling AC40 yachts. A key component of this competition will be dedicated crews comprised of Women and Youth America’s Cup sailors.
The regatta format will start with a series of fleet races, narrowing the field to the top two teams. These finalists will then face off in a winner-take-all showdown to determine the overall Preliminary Regatta champion. This Sardinian event represents the first opportunity for the competing teams to directly assess their performance and observe racing tactics against one another.
The 38th America’s Cup, steeped in history as the world’s oldest sporting trophy, is generating significant interest, not only among sailing enthusiasts but also within the broader tourism sector. Naples is preparing to welcome visitors with a newly constructed superyacht marina, designed to provide both race viewing access for tourists and locals alike.
Beyond the competition itself, opportunities to get involved are expanding. Volunteer campaigns are actively seeking individuals to contribute to the success of the regattas in both Naples and Sardinia. These roles promise a rewarding experience for those eager to be part of this prestigious event.
Emirates Team New Zealand is already making subtle adjustments to their boat, ‘Taihoro’, as they prepare for the challenges ahead. The team is refining its approach, demonstrating the intense level of preparation underway across all competitors. Details regarding the co-helms – Seb Menzies and Chris Draper – alongside skipper Nathan Outteridge on Taihoro have also been released, highlighting the experienced personnel driving the New Zealand challenge.
The America’s Cup continues to evolve, embracing inclusivity with the inclusion of Women and Youth America’s Cup sailors. This commitment to broadening participation underscores a modern approach to the sport, ensuring a more diverse and dynamic competition. The preliminary regattas, like the one in Sardinia, serve as crucial testing grounds for these teams, allowing them to refine their strategies and build momentum as they approach the main event in Naples.
The focus now shifts to Sardinia as teams finalize their preparations for the regatta. The event promises to be a captivating spectacle, offering a glimpse into the future of the America’s Cup and setting the stage for a thrilling competition in Naples in .
The Louis Vuitton 38th America’s Cup is more than just a sailing race; it’s a showcase of innovation, athleticism, and international collaboration. With the preliminary regattas underway and the main event on the horizon, the anticipation is building for what promises to be a landmark edition of this historic competition.