America’s Cup Roll Call

While we wait for the entry period to open January 1 for the 36th America’s Cup, we review the status of the six teams that competed this past summer in Bermuda. Here’s the roll call.

• Emirates Team New Zealand – After this team won in its first challenge in 1995, and successfully defended in 2000, they will seek to defend again in 2021.
• Oracle Team USA – no comment on future after continuous involvement since 2003.
• SoftBank Team Japan – no comment from first-time team that was heavily reliant on Oracle Team USA.
• Groupama Team France – no official statement from first-time team but indicates desire to continue.
• Land Rover BAR – first-time team has declared their commitment to continue.

• Artemis Racing, which has competed in the last two editions, is the latest to reveal their position, though it is hard to tell what it is. Here is their statement:
—————
Artemis Racing is reviewing the Protocol for the 36th America’s Cup, and continues to weigh whether to participate in this cycle or await the next.

The most important consideration for our team is the need for a cutting-edge boat design, one that results in speeds that are as fast or faster than in the last America’s Cup held in Bermuda. The boat and race format must be seen as bringing the sport of sailing forward and inspiring young and future generations.

Other aspects of importance include the cost, which should be justifiable to ensure the right number of participants, and the overall rules should guarantee fairness for all to compete effectively.

Our team will now take its time to carefully review the Protocol, and we look forward to receiving more information on the Class Rule in November.
—————
So they are going to wait and see if the monohull to be used in the 36th America’s Cup will be as “fast or faster” than the speeds seen in the last America’s Cup? That might be a long wait…