American Magic aids America’s Cup team

Traditionally, the prominent barrier to entry for the America’s Cup is money, but the 38th edition in 2027 has a new twist. For a new team to compete, they had to acquire an existing hull from AC36 or AC37, or build a new boat but to an AC37-launched hull design (which had to be bought from a past competitor).

For the American Racing Challenger Team USA, they didn’t have enough time to build a new boat, but there were available assets from the American Magic team which, after competing in 2021 and 2024, had declined entry in AC38.

That deal got done, but also extends beyond the acquisition of the AC75 yacht Patriot and two AC40 platforms. It also includes American Magic’s resources – American Magic Services – to support the new team’s challenge. The program will operate from the American Magic High Performance Center in Pensacola, Florida for race boat modifications and on-water testing.

“This is another strong step forward for American Magic Services,” said Tyson Lamond, Chief Executive Officer. “It is important to see an American team competing on the America’s Cup stage, and we are proud to support American Racing Challenger Team USA as they prepare for the 38th America’s Cup.

Based in Pensacola, Florida, American Magic Services specializes in high-performance engineering, systems design, and composite manufacturing. Initially established to meet the competitive demands of the America’s Cup, American Magic Services now provides innovative solutions for the marine, aerospace, and defense industries.

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.

Current entrants:
• Emirates Team New Zealand (NZL) – Defender
• Athena Racing (GBR) – Challenger of Record
• Luna Rossa (ITA) – Challenger
• Tudor Team Alinghi (SUI) – Challenger
• La Roche-Posay Racing Team (FRA) – Challenger
• American Racing Challenger Team USA (USA) – 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.

Preliminary Regattas:*
May 21-24 – Cagliari, Sardinia

* More are to be announced.