US sailing competition, America's Cup, facing a challenging path, according to Matt Sheahan
The 38th America's Cup has set sail, but off the water, a heated dispute between the Defender, Emirates Team New Zealand, and the Challenger of Record, Royal Yacht Squadron Ltd., is causing waves. The disagreements over the draft protocol for the prestigious sailing event have become public and contentious, reflecting deep differences not only about sailing but also about the event's format, commercial direction, and rules.
At the heart of the controversy is the Defender's proposed draft protocol, which includes innovative changes such as reducing crew size from eight to six, eliminating cyclors and grinders in favour of electric power, and mandating the inclusion of a female sailor and an under-25-year-old. While some challengers, like K-Challenge, support these forward-looking elements that embrace performance, diversity, and decarbonization, the Challenger of Record has expressed reservations, leading to tense exchanges.
This dispute could have significant consequences. If unresolved, it risks delaying the event or even causing a "Cup re-set," where the competition format or schedule might be substantially changed or restarted. The Challenger of Record's position—reportedly favouring a more commercial and technological approach, with increased use of software engineers and automation—suggests divergent visions for the Cup's future between defending and challenging sides. The disagreement could affect team preparations, rule finalization, and ultimately the nature of the competition, including its sporting integrity and commercial appeal.
Meanwhile, the current AC75 rule has plenty of life with boats at the leading edge, and racing is getting closer with each iteration. The next generation of AC75s will have no cyclors or grinders and will rely solely on electric power. The crew for these vessels will be reduced from eight to six, with a seventh position available as a guest slot. A spending cap of €60million has been set for the next America's Cup.
The AC Partnership (ACP), formed by the Defender, the Challenger of Record, and other prospective AC38 competitors, is responsible for creating the next America's Cup, including the format of racing, commercial rights, and selection of host cities. Naples has been announced as the venue for the next America's Cup, but some Challengers have voiced concerns that the Defender wasn't following the draft rules they were still working on.
Statements from the Challenger of Record's camp suggest they are already collaborating, potentially funding an arms race. If the dispute deepens, a Deed of Gift match could occur, which could be expensive and mark a design re-set. Losing the current AC75 rule could remove stability for the next Cup cycle, potentially hindering investment.
The French admit that competing closer to home makes things easier, while the British, American, Swiss, and Italian teams are on one side of the dispute, with the Kiwis and French on the other. The Italians are excited about the prospect of a home America's Cup.
In summary, the Defender and Challenger of Record are publicly disputing the draft protocol with differences over key elements and strategic vision. The outcome could either lead to a negotiated agreement allowing a smooth event or a complicated disruption influencing the 38th America’s Cup’s format, timing, and competitive nature.
Sports enthusiasts may be concerned about the ongoing dispute between Emirates Team New Zealand, the Defender, and the Challenger of Record, Royal Yacht Squadron Ltd. The controversy revolves around the proposed changes to sports events, particularly the America's Cup, including reducing crew size, adopting electric power, and promoting diversity. This disagreement could potentially alter the competition format, delay the event, or even cause a "Cup re-set."
