New Challenge for 38th America’s Cup

Sven Runow, Commodore of Royal Prince Edward Yacht Club, has confirmed to his members on May 13, 2026 that the Club intends to compete in the 38th America’s Cup.

Founded in 1922 and located along the southern shore of Sydney Harbour in Australia, the Club was originally named The New Yacht Club, later called the Southern Yacht Club, and subsequently renamed in honor of His Royal Highness Edward, Prince of Wales who ascended the throne as Edward VIII in 1936.

The entry deadline had closed on March 31, 2026, with Challenger racing to begin next spring before the 38th Match on July 10-18, 2027. Here is the notice Runow sent to his membership:

It is with great pride and a deep sense of tradition that I write to inform you of a landmark moment in the history of the Royal Prince Edward Yacht Club.

On behalf of the Club, I am delighted to announce that the Royal Prince Edward Yacht Club (PREYC) has formally issued a Notice of Challenge to the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron for the 38th America’s Cup, to be held in Naples in 2027.

This challenge represents not only our Club, but Australia on the world stage, continuing our proud national legacy in sailing’s most prestigious competition.

Australia’s history in the America’s Cup is one of determination, ingenuity, and ultimately, triumph. Most notably, the victory of Australia II in 1983 remains one of the defining moments in our nation’s sporting history. Representing the Royal Perth Yacht Club and led by skipper John Bertrand, Australia II achieved what many had long thought impossible, ending the New York Yacht Club’s 132-year hold on the Cup.

That victory transcended sport. It captured the attention of the nation and became a symbol of Australian innovation, courage, and belief. The revolutionary winged keel challenged convention, while the team’s resolve demonstrated that Australia could compete with, and defeat, the very best in the world. It was a moment that united the country and remains deeply embedded in our national identity.

As we now step forward with our own challenge, we do so mindful of that legacy and inspired by it. The Royal Prince Edward Yacht Club in honoured to represent Australia once again in this great contest, carrying forward a tradition of excellence, innovation, and ambition.

In this context, it is both appropriate and important that we acknowledge the extraordinary leadership, vision, and commitment of the Winning family. John ‘Woody’ Winning and John ‘Herman’ Winning, both long standing members of the RPEYC together with their family, have demonstrated an unwavering passion for Australian sailing, contributing significantly to the sport over many years through active participation and investment.

On behalf of all Members, I extend our sincere thanks to the Winning family for their trust in our Club, for their leadership in bringing this campaign to life, and for their continued and passionate support of Australian sailing.

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, 2026 – Cagliari, Sardinia

* More are to be announced.