Key points
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- Host location: Races will take place off the coast of Naples between Castel dell’Ovo and Posillipo; team bases to be built in Bagnoli.
- Timing: The event will be held in the (European) spring and summer of 2027.
- Italian pride and political backing: Strong support from Italian Government figures including PM Giorgia Meloni and ministers Andrea Abodi and Giancarlo Giorgetti.
- Team New Zealand’s view: CEO Grant Dalton says the decision brings the Cup “to the people” and acknowledges the competitive tension of racing in Luna Rossa territory.
- RNZYS perspective: The Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron welcomes the global visibility and sees it as an opportunity to promote Kiwi innovation and sailing culture.
Naples, Italy will host the Louis Vuitton 38th America’s Cup in 2027. The announcement, made jointly by the Government of Italy, Emirates Team New Zealand and the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, confirms the Cup’s return to Europe.
In a spirited bid led by Italian sporting authorities and backed by political leaders including Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Minister for Sport Andrea Abodi, Naples was selected as the ideal venue to stage the next chapter of America’s Cup history. The decision follows a competitive venue selection process that included interest from multiple cities around the globe.
The Cup races will unfold just off the shores of Naples, between Castel dell’Ovo and Posillipo, beneath the shadow of Mt Vesuvius. Team bases will be established in the Bagnoli district, an area undergoing significant environmental restoration and urban redevelopment—an effort that will be accelerated by the Cup campaign.
“The choice of Italy, and Naples in particular, represents a tremendous opportunity to enhance our national identity, promote sea-based education, and showcase sport as a driver for economic growth,” said Minister Abodi.
“This is a team victory—one that will make all Italians proud.”
Building more than boats
The announcement is as much about nation-building as it is about boat racing. Bagnoli, once an industrial zone in decline, is being positioned as a flagship for Italy’s marine and urban regeneration strategy. Hosting the Cup has been pitched as a lever for investment in infrastructure, environmental remediation, and innovation.
Mayor of Naples Gaetano Manfredi called it a generational opportunity.
“This will be the most significant sporting event ever hosted by Naples. It’s our chance to turn the Gulf into a world stage—where racing excellence meets cultural heritage,” he said.
“We’ll deliver an unforgettable event, while showcasing the beauty, competence and resilience of this city.”
Economic expectations are high. Previous European hosts such as Valencia (2007) and Barcelona (2024) reported significant boosts to tourism, marine industry jobs, and international reputation. Italy is banking on a similar legacy—not just for Naples, but for the broader Campania region.
Team New Zealand eyes passionate waters
As Defender and Trustee of the America’s Cup, Emirates Team New Zealand has played a central role in venue selection. CEO Grant Dalton expressed confidence that Naples will deliver both spectacle and soul.
“There’s a raw spirit and absolute pride in Italy that makes it the perfect host,” Dalton said.
“From a competitive standpoint, this feels like entering the lion’s den. But from a fan perspective, it’s an ideal stage—bringing the America’s Cup to the people.”
Dalton’s comments refer to the deeply entrenched support for challenger team Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli, who have long carried Italy’s ambitions in the Cup. Racing on home waters, their presence will likely amplify local engagement.
Naples is no stranger to Cup action. It hosted two America’s Cup World Series events in 2012 and 2013, where over one million spectators reportedly lined the waterfront over the course of each week-long regatta.
A Kiwi perspective
While the Cup heads to Europe, the New Zealand presence will remain strong. The Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron (RNZYS), as current Cup trustee, welcomed the move and highlighted the opportunity for Kiwi sailing, technology, and storytelling to reach new global audiences.
“Naples is a vibrant hub of sailing history and enthusiasm. Hosting the Cup there builds on our commitment to innovation, excellence, and international engagement,” said Commodore David Blakey.
“Our members had an unforgettable experience in Barcelona, and we’re excited to deepen those connections in Italy.”
Both the Youth America’s Cup and Puig Women’s America’s Cup are also expected to be staged in Naples, aligning with efforts to grow the sport’s inclusivity and future-facing appeal.
What happens next?
With the host city now confirmed, the next steps include detailed race planning, base construction in Bagnoli, and confirmation of event schedules and support regattas. Organisers have promised more announcements in the coming months, including updates on sustainability initiatives, fan zones, and hospitality opportunities.
The selection of Naples signals not just a change of scenery, but a continuation of the Cup’s evolving identity—a regatta rooted in tradition, driven by innovation, and increasingly accessible to a global audience.
Naples is ready. And the countdown to 2027 has officially started!
