The America’s Cup is the pinnacle of sailing competition, steeped in tradition and prestige. Yet, with each edition, the question of where it should be held sparks heated debate. As the 2028 event looms, speculation is already swirling about which location will best serve the competition, the teams, and the fans. Should the Cup return to its spiritual home in Auckland, stay in Europe, or venture somewhere entirely new?
The economic and social benefits of hosting the America’s Cup
All monetary values in this article are quoted in euros, as per the original analysis. For reference, one billion euros is approximately equivalent to two billion New Zealand dollars.
The recent 37th America’s Cup in Barcelona provided a clear example of the economic and social benefits that hosting the event can bring. A post-event study by the University of Barcelona and the Barcelona Capital Nàutica Foundation revealed that the event generated a €1.034 billion positive economic impact for the region. Over 1.8 million visitors attended across 59 days, with 460,819 unique attendees coming specifically for the event. Additionally, it created the equivalent of 12,872 jobs and generated €208.5 million in tax revenue.
According to the New Zealand Herald, Tātaki Auckland Unlimited has confirmed discussions with Emirates Team New Zealand about bringing the America’s Cup back to Auckland for the 38th edition. Nick Hill, CEO of Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, acknowledged the strong economic return of the event in Barcelona and stated that the benefits extend beyond tourism and trade, highlighting New Zealand’s expertise in marine innovation, advanced manufacturing, and sustainability.
Auckland: The ‘Home’ of the Cup
New Zealand has long been synonymous with the America’s Cup. Auckland, with its deep sailing heritage, cutting-edge boatbuilding expertise, and passionate fanbase, is a natural choice. The city successfully hosted the 2000 and 2003 editions, and again in 2021, delivering thrilling racing on the Waitematā Harbour.
However, hosting the Cup is costly. The 2021 event faced financial hurdles, with debates over government funding and infrastructure investment. Despite this, Auckland remains a favourite among sailors for its challenging yet fair racing conditions and its ability to draw immense local and international support. With Emirates Team New Zealand successfully defending the Cup in 2024, a return to home waters in 2028 could be a powerful statement.
Auckland’s case for hosting is further strengthened by the economic success of the Barcelona event. If similar economic benefits can be demonstrated for New Zealand, it could provide the leverage needed to secure government and private sector support. However, as the New Zealand Herald notes, government backing is still uncertain. Minister for Sport and Recreation Mark Mitchell stated that while the government is open to discussions about the event being hosted in New Zealand, any support would depend on an economic assessment of its value and competing financial priorities.
Despite the strong arguments for Auckland, the Boating New Zealand America’s Cup reporting team highlights a key challenge: the time zone. “While Auckland is undoubtedly one of the best venues from a sailing perspective, the reality is that it is more difficult for European and American audiences to watch or attend the event. The distance and time difference make it less commercially appealing for international broadcasters and sponsors.” This factor has often been a sticking point when it comes to deciding on a host city.
Alternative locations: Barcelona, Valencia, and beyond
Barcelona hosted the 2024 America’s Cup, marking a shift away from Auckland. The Spanish city provided a stunning waterfront, stable Mediterranean breezes, and a major European audience. However, one crucial factor is that Barcelona is not asking to host the event again. Without an active bid, attention shifts elsewhere.
Valencia, once considered a possible contender, has now been ruled out. The Boating New Zealand America’s Cup reporting team adds, “Valencia is not in play, despite its history with the event. The logistics and local conditions are simply not aligning for a successful bid.”
Another key factor in determining potential venues is that the Cup will not be held in a competitor country. This means Italy—home to Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli—is off the table. “It won’t be held in Italy,” notes the Boating New Zealand America’s Cup reporting team. “There’s no way a Defender would allow the event to take place in a direct competitor’s country.” Taking this logic, it won’t be held in the UK either.
With Europe presenting fewer viable options, a Middle Eastern host is becoming increasingly likely. “A Gulf state is a more probable candidate,” says the Boating New Zealand America’s Cup reporting team. “They have the financial backing, the infrastructure, and the drive to host prestigious global sporting events.” Jeddah and Abu Dhabi have already proven their ability to host major regattas, like SailGP, making them strong contenders.
The financial equation: Who can afford to host?
One of the biggest factors influencing the choice of host city is money. The America’s Cup is expensive to run, with government support, private investment, and sponsorship deals playing crucial roles. Auckland’s 2021 edition struggled to secure full funding, leading to speculation that Team New Zealand might look offshore again.
Barcelona’s 2024 bid was largely backed by private investment, a model that could appeal to other cities. The economic study from the University of Barcelona confirmed that the event’s financial return was significant, with a gross media brand value of €1.367 billion and a total TV audience of 954 million. These figures demonstrate the America’s Cup’s growing commercial strength, which could encourage more cities to bid for the 2028 edition.
The New Zealand Herald also highlighted that Auckland’s bid would likely need a mix of public and private funding, similar to the Barcelona model. Emirates Team New Zealand CEO Grant Dalton confirmed that discussions about funding structures are ongoing but acknowledged that central government support would be essential for a New Zealand-hosted event.
The countdown to 2028
With the 2024 America’s Cup now concluded and Emirates Team New Zealand once again victorious, discussions about 2028 are intensifying. As the defender, Team New Zealand holds the power to decide the venue. Auckland remains a strong contender, but financial realities may push the event offshore once again.
The economic and social benefits reported from the 37th America’s Cup in Barcelona add another dimension to the debate. If New Zealand can demonstrate similar potential returns, the argument for bringing the Cup back to Auckland will be stronger than ever.
As the New Zealand Herald reports, discussions between Auckland authorities and Team New Zealand are already underway, but securing the event will require a significant commitment from both public and private sectors. Meanwhile, with Barcelona not bidding, Valencia out of the picture, and Italy an unrealistic option, eyes turn to the Middle East as a highly probable alternative.
Wherever the America’s Cup lands in 2028, one thing is certain—it will continue to captivate sailing enthusiasts worldwide, pushing the limits of technology, teamwork, and pure racing skill.
