Emirates Team New Zealand began their summer training block in Naples ahead of the second Preliminary Regatta from the 24-27 September 2026. With two boats on the water, it was a long session but the feedback was more than positive.
With a little over a year to go until the fight gets real and the America’s Cup trophy is on the line, Emirates Team New Zealand are taking every moment from now that they can to prepare and familiarise themselves with the expected sea-breeze conditions that mid-summer brings in the Bay of Naples.
Ray Davies, the coach for Emirates Team New Zealand was buzzing about the conditions and the venue saying; “It’s a pretty big moment for the team. Always is, first day back at a new venue. We’re seeing 11 to 15 knots and very steady from around that 210 direction. So, the racecourse will be tucked in really close to the spectators, like we’re right in here. And it is going to be stunning.”
Grant Dalton, CEO of Emirates Team New Zealand set the perspective saying: A day like today, early July, one year to go, everything’s semi under control as it ever is in this game. Today’s our first day of sailing here in Naples. Perfect conditions. The racecourse is ideal. In fact, all the guys on the chase today have said, “Wow, what an amazing place to sail.”
“I remember the very first day we sailed in Barcelona with the AC75, and it was kind of that moment, when you think, “Wow, look what we’ve managed to do.” Today’s the same sort of feeling.”
The Kiwis weren’t alone on the water, with home-favourites Luna Rossa also fielding two boats on what was a pitch-perfect day for sailing. Blue skies, blue water and all set against the epic backdrop of the one of the most beautiful cities in the world – Naples.
Mark your calendar. The Louis Vuitton 38th America’s Cup is incoming.
