Jeddah: All rainbows and unicorns

Following the first preliminary regatta in Spain, the teams will next race on November 30-December 3 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The choice of venue has been criticized, a result of the country having the worst human rights record in the modern world. Terrorist attacks are also a concern.

But according to America’s Cup defender CEO Grant Dalton, who made the decision – and is taking the money – for the Saudi Arabian event, he is not expecting much backlash. “I have been there and I’ve seen what is happening, and I think it’s a great place,” said Dalton. “I think get onboard because that is the future.”

Maybe if you are a Kiwi, but the New York Yacht Club’s American Magic is seeking an exemption from participating, citing heightened safety concerns for a team representing America in a place marked by the US State Department as a terror risk.

The USA advisory states, “Reconsider travel to Saudi Arabia due to the threat of missile and drone attacks on civilian facilities.” Not exactly the kind of place to, as the America’s Cup Deed of Gift states, “promote friendly competition among nations.”

Following the publication of the AC37 Protocol and AC75 Class Rule on November 17, 2021, the AC75 Class Rule and AC Technical Regulations were finalized on March 17, 2022. The entry period opened December 1, 2021 and runs until July 31, 2022, but late entries for the 37th America’s Cup may be accepted until May 31, 2023. The Defender was to announce the Match Venue on September 17, 2021 but postponed the venue reveal, confirming it would be Barcelona on March 30, 2022. The 37th America’s Cup begins October 12, 2024.

Teams revealed to challenge defender Emirates Team New Zealand (NZL):
• INEOS Britannia (GBR)
• Alinghi Red Bull Racing (SUI)
• Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli Team (ITA)
• NYYC American Magic (USA)
• Orient Express Racing Team (FRA)

2023-24 Preliminary Regattas
September 14-17, 2023 (AC40): Vilanova i la Geltrú, Spain
November 30-December 3 (AC40): Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
August 2024 (AC75): Barcelona, Spain

2024 America’s Cup
September: Challenger Selection Series
October 12 – ?: 37th Match (Best of 13)

Additionally, 12 teams will compete in the 2024 Youth & Women’s America’s Cup.

Noticeboard: https://ac37noticeboard.acofficials.org/
Additional details: www.americascup.com/en/home