Will USA risk competing in Saudi Arabia?

After America’s Cup Challenger American Magic (USA) won the first of the three preliminary regattas, the question remained whether they would compete in the second event. The team unsuccessfully sought relief from participation due to safety concerns in Saudi Arabia, and it was unclear what penalty they could incur as attendance was required.

While the USA team has not declared its intent, the Arab News publication reports that all six teams taking part in the 37th America’s Cup will be at the second preliminary regatta on the Red Sea in Jeddah.

With the event dates of November 30-December 3 (AC40), the six teams are from New Zealand, UK, Switzerland, France, Italy, and USA which will be racing their AC40s out of Jeddah Yacht Marina and just a few hundred meters away from the racetrack that hosts the Saudi Arabia Formula One Grand Prix.

Saudi Arabia will be the only venue outside of Spain to host an America’s Cup regatta during the 37th AC cycle.

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 2 (AC40): Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
August 2024 (AC75): Barcelona, Spain

2024 America’s Cup
August 29-October 7: 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