Overview

• American Magic has cast doubt on its participation in the 38th America’s Cup, citing a lack of transparency from Team New Zealand regarding event protocols and obligations.
• Athena Racing, led by Ben Ainslie, echoed similar concerns, stating that significant barriers remain to agreeing on a fair sporting framework for the competition.
• The premature announcement of Naples as the 2027 host has been criticized, as challengers await clarity on schedules, base allocations, and financial liabilities tied to the event.
• Ineos previously withdrew from the Cup, citing delays in protocol agreements that hindered their ability to prepare effectively for the competition.
• If American Magic and other challengers withdraw, the America’s Cup could see its first-ever absence of an American team in its 174-year history.