In a week that has seen America’s Cup watchers recalibrate their expectations for AC38, France has offered a flicker of optimism. Amid the confirmed exits of INEOS Britannia and Alinghi Red Bull Racing, a spokesperson for the French syndicate has told Boating New Zealand that the team “has continued to work since the end of AC37,” and while not yet officially entered in AC38, “it is our intention to participate.”
But there’s a caveat – a significant one.
“Like all teams, we wait for the final Protocol, hosting city and calendar,” the French statement continued.
This cautious but hopeful declaration puts France in a holding pattern, much like several other potential challengers. With the Challenger of Record (Royal Yacht Squadron) and Defender (Emirates Team New Zealand/RZNYS) still finalising the event’s governing Protocol and yet to announce the host city, uncertainty continues to hover over the next edition of sailing’s greatest prize.
A shifting field
Only weeks ago, it seemed that AC38 might build on the momentum of Barcelona 2024 with a growing fleet. But in rapid succession, INEOS Britannia stepped back from fielding a second British entry, and Alinghi Red Bull Racing confirmed it would not be returning to the Cup arena. With those two heavyweight campaigns sidelined, the spotlight turned to undecided teams – and France was near the top.
Read up on Alinghi’s exit – click here
The French have long been involved with the Cup, including in the 36th edition in Auckland, where Orient Express Racing Team (under the name Team France) made a technically accomplished but ultimately short-lived challenge. Since then, France has continued to invest in high-performance sailing talent and simulator programmes. Insiders say that the foundations for a team remain strong – but time is of the essence.
The need for certainty
It’s not just about logistics. The host city announcement is a major consideration for potential teams, affecting everything from shipping and accommodation to sponsor packages and team infrastructure. Auckland has already been vetoed as host city, current word on the street is that we are waiting for a decision between Italy and Greece.
Read up on Auckland’s host exit – click here
Without a confirmed venue, teams cannot establish training bases, sign venue-dependent sponsorships, or begin long-lead procurement for shore facilities and support fleets. For campaigns that can cost upwards of NZD $150 million, clarity isn’t a luxury – it’s a necessity.
The French response makes clear that while the intention is there, the practicalities hinge on decisions that lie with the event organisers. And they’re not alone. Several other potential entrants remain uncommitted as the calendar ticks on.
Waiting for the green light
With entries expected to be finalised by late 2025, and the event itself likely to take place in 2027, time is still available – but the margin for new campaigns is narrowing. The longer the Protocol remains in draft form, the more difficult it becomes for fresh teams to organise and fund a competitive effort.
Still, France’s message stands in contrast to the silence from some others. It’s a signal that, despite the recent withdrawals, there are teams still hungry for the challenge – provided the playing field is made visible soon.
Looking ahead
Boating New Zealand will continue to track the developments around AC38 as they unfold. We’ve reached out to other undecided syndicates and will publish responses as they arrive. With Emirates Team New Zealand’s strong leadership and the Challenger of Record’s ongoing work, the foundations are still being laid for a compelling Cup.
For now, France is still in the race – quietly, cautiously, and with fingers poised over the entry button.
