The 37th America’s Cup, the most prestigious event in international yacht racing, is set to captivate sailing enthusiasts and newcomers alike as it unfolds in Barcelona from late August to late October 2024. With its roots dating back to 1851, the America’s Cup is not just a race; it’s a test of innovation, skill, and strategic brilliance that has defined the sport for over 170 years. Here’s everything you need to know about this year’s competition, its rich history, and how you can be part of this iconic sporting spectacle.

A Glimpse into the History of the America’s Cup

The America’s Cup began in 1851 when the schooner ‘America’ from New York stunned the world by winning a race around the Isle of Wight, beating the best of the British fleet. The victory not only secured the £100 Cup but also established a new era in competitive sailing. Renamed the America’s Cup in 1857, the trophy has since become a symbol of international competition, drawing challengers from across the globe.

The United States dominated the Cup for over a century, defending it successfully 24 times from 1870 to 1980. However, in 1983, ‘Australia II’ famously broke the American stronghold, and since then, the Cup has been contested in various iconic locations, including Fremantle, San Diego, and Auckland. Today, only four nations—USA, Australia, New Zealand, and Switzerland—have won the Cup, making it one of the most elusive trophies in sports.

The 37th America’s Cup: Barcelona Sets the Stage

This year’s America’s Cup promises to be a thrilling showcase of speed, strategy, and cutting-edge technology, all set against the stunning backdrop of Barcelona. The Port Vell, located in the heart of the city, will be buzzing with activity as the Race Village becomes the epicenter of the event, complete with giant screens, team bases, and numerous fan zones. Here’s what you can expect:

  1. Location Highlights:
    • Port Vell: The main hub for fans, featuring the Race Village, team bases, and plenty of interactive experiences. A morning or evening visit will allow you to see the teams preparing their boats—a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the action.
    • Port Olímpic: Hosting the UniCredit Youth and Puig Women’s America’s Cup with dynamic AC40 class races, this area provides an up-close view of the future stars of sailing.
    • La Barceloneta Beachfront: The perfect natural amphitheater to watch the high-speed action, with boats reaching over 100 km/h just yards from the shore.
  2. Team Bases and Viewing Points:
    • Emirates Team New Zealand: The defending champions have their base at the tip of the promontory near the World Trade Centre. It’s an iconic location, marked by the Christopher Columbus statue pointing directly at the Kiwi’s operations.
    • INEOS Britannia and Alinghi Red Bull Racing: Both teams are based near the bustling IMAX cinema and aquarium area, providing fans easy access to view these state-of-the-art setups.
    • Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli and NYYC American Magic: Positioned towards the southern end of Port Vell, these bases are a must-see, with Luna Rossa’s striking all-white building and NYYC American Magic nestled in the Marina Barcelona 92, near the popular Passeig de Joan de Borbó.
    • Orient Express Racing Team: The French challengers are based on Moll de Ponent, best viewed from the water—a perfect excuse for a harbor cruise.

Race Format: Breaking Down the Competition

The 37th America’s Cup is more than just the final match; it’s a series of intense competitions designed to whittle down the challengers. Here’s how it works:

  • Challenger Selection Series (Louis Vuitton Cup):
    • Double Round Robin (August 29 – September 11): Six teams, including the Defender Emirates Team New Zealand, compete in match races. Only the top four challengers advance, with the Defender’s races not counting towards standings.
    • Semi-Finals (September 14 – 23): A first-to-five-points series will determine which two teams make it to the finals.
    • Finals (September 26 – October 7): The first team to score seven points in the Louis Vuitton Cup Final earns the right to challenge the Defender in the America’s Cup Match.
  • America’s Cup Match:
    • The ultimate showdown where the defending champions, Emirates Team New Zealand, will face off against the challenger in a best-of-13 series. The first team to win seven races will take home the oldest trophy in international sports.

How to Watch and Experience the America’s Cup in Barcelona

Barcelona’s vibrant setting will make the 37th America’s Cup an unforgettable event for both spectators and competitors. Here’s how to immerse yourself in the action:

  • Live Broadcast: The races will be streamed live on the America’s Cup Facebook and YouTube channels, as well as on www.americascup.com, starting at 2:00 pm (14:00 CEST) on race days.
  • On-Site Viewing: For those lucky enough to be in Barcelona, the Race Village at Port Vell offers a front-row seat to all the action, with live screens, interactive zones, and team activations.
  • Fanzones: Popular spots like Plaça del Mar and Bogatell will provide beachside views of the races, making it easy to catch the action as the boats fly by at breathtaking speeds.