What is America's Cup?
Founded in 1851, the America's Cup is the oldest active cup in international sporting and sailing excellence, in which yacht clubs representing various countries compete for the trophy. The shape of the trophy pits the defending yacht club, known as the Defender, against a challenger in a competitive race. Each edition of the America's Cup is organized by the Defender, who has the authority to select the venue, date, rules and boat design for the event.
If it's an international cup, why is it called the America's Cup?
It was initially named the RYS £100 Cup because it was worth £100 before the American syndicate mistakenly engraved it as the 100 Guinea Cup. Isle of Wight: Named after the boat that won the inaugural race around the Americas. No, they weren't particularly creative in naming their boats in the 19th century.
How does it work?
Teams must first compete in a series of regattas, culminating in the Louis Vuitton Cup, which determines the challenge of the main event. After Britain won the right to challenge New Zealand by defeating Italy's Luna Rosa Prada Pirelli, New Zealand will face defending champion Ineos Britannia in this year's competition. Conveniently in a decisive race. The current format consists of a best of 13 series; The first to win seven races takes home the trophy. This year's edition begins on October 12 with the first two matches. After that, the third and fourth races will be held on October 13. The fifth and sixth races will be held on October 16 and the seventh on October 18. If necessary, the eighth race will be held on October 18, the ninth and 10th on October 19, and the 11th and 12th on October 20. The final, if necessary, will be held on October 21.
And are these teams equally matched?
Historically, no. New Zealand have won the trophy four times (1995, 2000, 2017 and 2021) and are second only to the USA for the most wins (30). Switzerland won twice (2003 and 2007) and Australia once in 1983, breaking the USA's dominance. Great Britain have never won the trophy in 22 attempts.
But as of today?
Well, no. Indeed, Ineos Britannia is the first British challenger since the Royal Thames Yacht Club's attempt in 1964 (on a yacht Sir Peter Scott, son of Antarctic explorer Captain Robert Scott), so they hope to end a long drought. New Zealand, on the other hand, have become synonymous with the modern-day America's Cup since their first win in San Diego and have established themselves as a powerhouse. Leading their charge this year is Peter Burling, a two-time Cup winner and Olympic gold medalist known for his composure and technical expertise. With a strong line-up and improved tactics, this New Zealand team is ready to deliver their strongest defense yet.
So Ineos Britannia has no chance?
Don't jump the gun so quickly. Of course, Britain hasn't competed in an actual cup competition since 1964, and certainly, the displays in recent editions in Bermuda and Auckland have left much to be desired. But that didn't faze team principal Sir Jim Radcliffe.
Wait, wait. Jim Radcliffe of Manchester United? Is he on a boat?
Only one. After a drink with team captain and co-principal Ben Ainslie, he reportedly invested £110m in the team – the biggest sponsorship in British sailing history. This investment provided financial support for the development and testing of two advanced boat monohull boats. The most successful sailor in Olympic history, Ainslie is a four-time America's Cup winner with key crew members including chief executive, Grant Zimmer. The Ineos team has developed their boat with the support of engineers from Formula One team Mercedes and expertise from their cycling team, as part of the wider Ineos Sports Group.
Looks like a lot of work has gone into this one boat. What's so special about it?
Both teams will compete in AC75 class boats, which debuted in the previous edition. These hi-tech monohulls use foils to increase speed and agility. This year's restrictions limit each team to one boat, increasing the pressure on designers to deliver a winning craft from the start. Here comes the science bit: innovations in aerodynamics, hydrodynamics and mechatronics (the integration of mechanical and electronic systems) have always played an important role in competition and the performance of AC75s under various wind conditions along with teams' strategic decisions during races. will be important.
A competition steeped in history, it is not only a test of sailing ability but also a showcase of cutting-edge technology and strategy. I was sold. Where is this happening and how can I see it?
This year's event takes place in Barcelona's Port Vell, where a vibrant racing village will provide fans with an exciting experience. The race takes place off Barcelonanetta beach, offering excellent viewing opportunities for those on the shore. Also, enthusiasts can hire their own boat on the water for premium viewing. Those lost in bed or in their office chairs (not that we condone anything like that) can still catch all the action on the official America's Cup website and its YouTube channel, or on TNT Sports and Discovery+.
