The 2024 America’s Cup, held in the vibrant city of Barcelona, has come to an end, leaving a legacy of thrilling competition and unforgettable moments on the water. However, the city has announced that it will not be pursuing hosting the next edition of the prestigious sailing event.
Barcelona’s decision marks a significant shift in the America’s Cup landscape, opening the door for new contenders to step forward and host the 38th edition in 2027. As the current champions, Emirates Team New Zealand now holds the coveted right to select the next venue.
While the 2024 regatta proved to be a resounding success for Barcelona, city officials have confirmed that the city’s commitment to hosting the event was always intended to be a one-time occurrence. Barcelona is now focused on attracting other high-profile sporting events, such as the opening stage of the 2026 Tour de France.
With Barcelona out of the race, two strong contenders have emerged as frontrunners: Valencia and Saudi Arabia.
Valencia: A Familiar Contender
Valencia, a coastal city in Spain, boasts a rich sailing history and a familiar setting for the America’s Cup, having hosted the event in 2007 and 2010. Its Mediterranean location, established sailing infrastructure, and previous experience make it a compelling candidate.
Saudi Arabia: A Bold New Entrant
Saudi Arabia, with its growing investment in international sports and infrastructure improvements, is a rising contender. The country recently hosted a preliminary regatta in Jeddah in 2023, showcasing its ambition to be a global hub for sporting events.
While Valencia and Saudi Arabia are the frontrunners, other potential locations could emerge. Auckland, New Zealand’s traditional sailing hub, remains a possibility, although Emirates Team New Zealand’s CEO, Grant Dalton, has expressed reservations about bringing the cup back home unless the city can match the financial offers from other bidders.
The Future of the America’s Cup
The America’s Cup is renowned as the world’s oldest international sporting event, and it continues to push the boundaries of sailing technology and skill. With New Zealand’s strategic leadership and the growing interest from international locations, the America’s Cup is poised for an exciting future, promising expanded participation, global reach, and continued innovation.
As the America’s Cup sets sail for its next chapter, the world’s attention turns to New Zealand’s decision on the next host city. Whether Valencia, Saudi Arabia, or another contender wins the bid, the future of the America’s Cup looks bright, promising another thrilling competition for sailing enthusiasts around the world.
