In another dramatic twist to the already turbulent build-up to the 38th America’s Cup, Emirates Team New Zealand’s confirmation of Naples as the next host city has set off a chain reaction of challengers speaking out — and in some cases, doubling back.
Late on Wednesday night NZT, a series of statements rolled in, beginning with Alinghi Red Bull Racing, followed shortly by Athena Racing (the Challenger of Record) and then American Magic. Each took aim at what they saw as a premature and opaque venue announcement — with serious questions raised about whether the process honours the agreed governance structure.
The most intriguing part? Alinghi, who had previously withdrawn from AC38, now appear to be reconsidering.
Alinghi opens the salvo — and leaves the door ajar
Alinghi Red Bull Racing, who stepped away from the 38th Cup back in April, fired the first shot. In a strongly-worded statement, they accused the Defender of failing to uphold its role as trustee of the America’s Cup, noting that “any suggestion that the protocol is all but finalised is simply untrue.”
They also accused Emirates Team New Zealand of bypassing due process in naming Naples without consensus.
But the kicker came in the final paragraph — a surprise pivot that hinted at a possible return:
“If these objectives can be achieved, Alinghi Red Bull Racing is ready to explore ways we can be part of the future — especially in the wonderful city of Naples in 2027.”
So, not quite back in the game — but certainly no longer fully out of it either.
Challenger of Record makes its position clear
Next up was Athena Racing, the Challenger of Record representing the Royal Yacht Squadron Ltd. Their message was more succinct but no less firm. While acknowledging the need to get on with Cup planning, Athena took issue with the idea that the Defender could dictate the host venue without full challenger consultation.
“The Defender does not have the right to nominate the Host Venue unilaterally,” their statement read. “This has significant implications for cost and feasibility for all challengers.”
They closed by saying they remain committed to finding a resolution that ensures the 2027 America’s Cup can be a success — but made it clear the current approach risks derailing that goal.
American Magic joins chorus of concern
American Magic, representing the New York Yacht Club, quickly followed with a full-throated endorsement of the concerns raised by both Alinghi and Athena.
“We continue to support the Challenger of Record in their efforts to secure a fair and balanced Protocol, a transparent governance model, and an effective America’s Cup partnership that benefits all stakeholders,” their statement read.
Most notably, American Magic said they would not commit to participating in the Challenger Selection Series until an acceptable framework is in place. That’s a big statement — and one that will have ripple effects among the remaining teams.
Team New Zealand defends its position — twice
Early the following morning, Emirates Team New Zealand issued a short, sharp statement in response.
They reiterated that, as Defender, they hold the full right to select the venue — a point backed by the Deed of Gift and reinforced in a Memorandum of Understanding signed with Athena Racing following the 37th Cup.
“The Defender remains committed to work with the teams to create a partnership for the future America’s Cups,” they added.
A few hours later, they followed up with a more detailed clarification. The second statement quoted the MOU directly:
“The venue for the Match and for the preceding CSS will be determined and announced by the AC38 Defender within eight months of the AC37 Final Race. The final dates for the Match and the preceding CSS will be announced within a further two months of the venue announcement.”
That timeline, it seems, has just been met — but only just. And while it reaffirms New Zealand’s legal footing, it does little to ease tensions.
A Cup divided?
What’s clear is that, beneath the surface, there’s a battle brewing — not just for the Cup, but for control of its future. The push-pull between the Defender’s historical powers and the modern desire for collaborative governance is playing out once again.
Athena Racing may still hold the cards as Challenger of Record, but their authority is now being stress-tested. The question now is whether Emirates Team New Zealand can bring the parties back into alignment — or whether AC38 is at risk of fracturing before it even begins.
Whatever happens next, the focus is squarely on Naples. What was meant to be a celebratory announcement has become a flashpoint — and the sailing world will be watching closely.
