Entry deadline delayed for America’s Cup

The five teams entered in the 38th America’s Cup have agreed to extend the late entry deadline, originally set for January 31, 2026. The new deadline is March 31, which may be sufficient for rumored efforts from Australia and Italy, along with the previously announced Riptide Racing from the USA.

Riptide Racing founder Chris Poole set a fundraising goal of $50 million dollars for the challenge, with $30 million needed to meet the entry deadline. Poole has not responded to a request for comment on their status (which makes Curmudgeon cranky, as if he needed a reason).

Beyond funds, the competition in 2027 requires all teams to race with hulls from the 37th America’s Cup (or modified from the 2021, AC36 versions). All five teams currently entered have assets from previous campaigns, but new teams would need to acquire available hulls.

Details: https://www.americascup.com/

Defender New Zealand and Challenger of Record from Great Britain confirmed the Protocol for the 38th America’s Cup on August 12, 2025. The close of the initial entry period was October 31, 2025, with late entries considered up to March 31, 2026. If no USA team participates in the 38th America’s Cup, it will be the first time in the event’s 175-year history.

Current entrants:
• Emirates Team New Zealand (NZL) – Defender
• Athena Racing (GBR) – Challenger of Record
• Luna Rossa (ITA) – Challenger
• Tudor Team Alinghi (SUI) – Challenger
• K-Challenge (FRA) – Challenger

After the 2024 event, Barcelona, Spain declined hosting another edition, with the venue moved to Naples, Italy. Challenger racing begins in the spring before the 38th Match on July 10-18, 2027.