One race is over, another begins

Published on October 21st, 2024

by Craig Leweck, Scuttlebutt Sailing News
Continuity is not a strength of the America’s Cup, and while the AC75 will continue as the boat of choice, the other big questions for the 38th edition are when and where. Gone are the days when the host location was a given, and there is nothing certain about where New Zealand will defend the Cup.

Barcelona paid good money to host the 37th edition, and they have repeatedly said how it was money well spent. Aside from the economic impact, which was expected to be over €1.2 billion, the city believes it achieved its goals to heighten international recognition, reconnect the city with the Mediterranean, and promote sustainable business.

But if Barcelona achieved its goals, why do it again? And if so, at what cost? As it was the host fee that allowed New Zealand to be competitive, the Kiwi team would not be in a position to offer a discount. However, team CEO Grant Dalton has been public about his desire to hold the next event within two years, and that timeline does not provide much space for reviewing new venues.

An alternative is Auckland, and former New Zealand Prime Minister and team patron Helen Clark believes hosting is viable so long as the procrastination and arguments that notoriously surround the event can be put to one side. “Kiwi’s love winning and seeing a successful event at home. We can do that really well, but we have to invest to get it.”

However, Team NZ’s principal and long-time backer, Canadian billionaire Matte de Nora, told Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera that if the next series is held within two years, it would either stay in Barcelona, Spain or go to the Middle East.

“The Middle East is ready in two years. Barcelona already is. If we were to return to New Zealand, however, and it is a scenario, two years are not enough,” de Nora said.

The clock is ticking….

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