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Racer Chaser
I have had a close affiliation with The Ocean Race since the 2011-12 edition. Back then I worked at the race headquarters in Alicante, Spain in the communications team helping create the content that was published on the official website and sent out to the mainstream media in daily press releases.
Racer Chaser
I have had a close affiliation with The Ocean Race since the 2011-12 edition. Back then I worked at the race headquarters in Alicante, Spain in the communications team helping create the content that was published on the official website and sent out to the mainstream media in daily press releases.
Ares Sports, Media and Entertainment buys into France SailGP team
Another day another deal in the SailGP stratosphere.
For the Corinthians…
Designed and engineered specifically to meet the needs of amateur racing sailors, Musto’s all-new inshore and offshore BR3 gear has broad appeal.
Adventure awaits for Transatlantic Race 2025 competitors
There’s something undeniably special about the start of a transatlantic yacht race — the quiet anticipation, the sharpened focus, and that edge-of-the-seat feeling that no one quite knows what lies ahead.
Editor's Notebook
TP52 World Championship Heads to Portugal | World Sailing launches global e-learning platform | Monster entry for the 2025 Finn World Masters in Medemblik | Itajaí confirmed for 2027 and 2031 Ocean Race stopovers
Admiral’s Cup Contenders Go Head-to-Head at IRC Nationals
This weekend’s British IRC National Championship in Cowes, England was an early opportunity for a handful of the international crews set to contest next month’s Admiral’s Cup to test their mettle against each other on the unpredictable waters of the Solent.
What's taking so long?
As the Admiral’s Cup mandates female crew on board, top sailors share mixed views. Is it tokenism or progress? Joy Fitzgerald, Abby Ehler and others weigh in — and the debate highlights how far offshore sailing has come, and how far it still has to go.
Next level optimisation
Francesco Pelizza, director and founder of AMS Advanced Mechanical Solutions, gives an update on the role of FEA in the design process with reference to a recent project, Michael Schmidt’s stunning Y8.
It's 20 years since Ellen MacArthur's record setting solo circumnavigation
Whisper it (or maybe shout it from the rooftops), because hardly anybody seems to have noticed, but it was 20 years ago this year that Ellen MacArthur broke the solo round-the-world sailing record on board her trimaran B&Q – writes Ed Gorman.
Red Moon Rising
Luna Rossa were among the hot favourites for AC37 but crashed out in the challenger final. Now, with lessons learned and a restructured team, Italy’s Red Moon is rising fast for AC38. While rivals are mired in protocol spats the Italians are already back on the water and surging ahead.
SailGP New York Analysis
In this episode of The Yacht Racing Life Podcast, Justin Chisholm is joined from the UK by fellow yachting journalist Magnus Wheatley to dive into all the drama, intrigue, and slippery foils of the the sixth event of SailGP Season 5, which took place in New York last weekend.
Spain's Wizner brothers win 2025 49er European Championship
Spanish brothers Martín and Jaime Wizner have won the 2025 49er European Championship, held on the waters off the Greek city of Thessaloniki, after finishing fourth in the overall open series standings.
Spain snatch New York SailGP win to seize Season 5 lead
Diego Botín's Spain clinched back-to-back US wins and seized the SailGP championship lead in New York, beating New Zealand and France in a tense three-boat final. An unpredictable weekend on the Hudson saw five race winners and a memorable first race victory for Martine Grael's Brazil.
12-Strong SailGP Fleet Returns To Action In New York
SailGP returns to action this weekend in New York after an 11-week break. With 12 teams back on the water and the season finely poised, the international fleet could face tricky conditions and a restricted racecourse for the sixth event of Season 5.
Hugh Jackman and Ryan Reynolds Buy Australia SailGP Team
Another week – another celebrity SailGP takeover. After the recent announcement of American film star Anne Hathaway's involvement in buying Red Bull Italy, this time it is Australian actor Hugh Jackman and Canadian/American star Ryan Reynolds behind the purchase of Tom Slingsby's Australian team.
French Offshore Sailing’s Next Big Thing Is Already Here
28-year-old Tom Laperche has made a huge impression on the sailing world. After winning the 2022 Solitaire du Figaro the young Frenchman joined Francois Gabart's SVR-Lazartigue Ultim programme – first as co-skipper and then in sole charge. Alexander Champy-McLean sat down with him to find out more.
Fair starts and true courses
GiPSY Buoy allows racecourse mark positions to be adjusted remotely – and on the fly.
Preparing For A Major Championship: Final Week Checklist
It’s the last week before a regatta you’ve been preparing for months for. What do you do? In the first of an occasional series exclusively for Yacht Racing Life, Dan Self from the The Layline coaching website has some excellent tips on where your focus should be.
'Los Gallos' Primed For Action As SailGP Returns In New York
Spain’s SailGP Team returns to action in New York this weekend, riding high after a dramatic win at the last event in San Francisco. With Season 5 heating up and the fleet tighter than ever, Diego Botín’s team is chasing consistency—and the overall lead.
Editor's Notebook
Team Racing World Championship | Casa Vela Cup | 2025 Rolex Fastnet Race | 151 Miglia | Wally Rocket 51
Better than New and Ready to Race
The iconic J Class yacht Rainbow has just completed an astonishingly comprehensive programme of refit works and performance optimisation – and she has never had quite so much regatta potential.
Cap pour Elles Winners Prepare for Transat Café l'Or Challenge
Spain’s Aina Bauza and France’s Axelle Pillain are set to tackle the 2025 Transat Café l'Or aboard the Class 40 Grand Rhino, after earning the ‘Cap pour Elles’ scholarship. With just months to prepare, the duo is training hard and seeking sponsors for their Class40 transatlantic challenge.
Emirates Team New Zealand Unswayed By 'Gang of Three' Statement Onslaught
The America's Cup Defender Emirates Team New Zealand has responded to yesterday's barrage of critical statements from the Swiss, British, and American challengers with a curt public rebuttal.
Spain’s Jordi Xammar & Marta Cardona Target 470 World Championship Title
Spain’s Jordi Xammar and Marta Cardona are targeting 470 World Championship gold after an impressive European title win—just 40 days into their new Olympic campaign. With strong early results and big ambitions, the duo are quickly becoming Spain's ones to watch on the Olympic circuit.
AC38: Athena Racing and American Magic issue follow up statements
Both the British Challenger of Record Athena Racing and American Magic have issued their own statements following the one issued earlier today by Alinghi Red Bull Racing.
Alinghi Red Bull Racing Weighs In To Support British And American Challenger Concerns
Despite withdrawing last month as a potential challenger for the 38th America's Cup, Switzerland's Alinghi Red Bull Racing has today released a statement supporting the stance taken by the British and American teams in calling for more transparency from the Defender – Emirates Team New Zealand.
Conde de Godó Trophy underway in Barcelona
One hundred boats and 700 sailors from thirteen nations to compete at the 52nd Conde de Godó Trophy in Barcelona.
Naples Steps into the Spotlight for the 38th America’s Cup
Today Naples officially kicked off its role as host of the 38th America’s Cup with a stunning presentation at Castel dell’Ovo. Italian leaders and Cup officials celebrated the city’s sailing legacy and looked ahead to 2027 with pride, purpose, and a clear vision for what’s to come.
The State of High-Performance Sailing
High-performance sailing is as enthralling as it is fragmented. Our sport is charging ahead on multiple fronts. From SailGP’s global travelling circus, the America’s Cup’s revolutionary foiling monohulls, to the owner-funded 52 Super Series and 44Cup circuits, there's no shortage of events to watch.
It all starts with data
Rondal’s fully-integrated, holistically-engineered sailing systems take all of the guesswork – and much of the risk – out of superyacht handling.
Movie Star Anne Hathaway Takes A Share in Red Bull Italy SailGP Team
SailGP goes all Hollywood as Anne Hathaway, Assia Grazioli-Venier, and Jimmy Spithill take over the Red Bull Italy SailGP Team—ushering in SailGP’s first female-led team ownership and a bold new chapter for Italian sailing.
The Busy World Of Franck Cammas
The French offshore legend is prepping for The Ocean Race Europe with Swiss team Holcim–PRB, while eying a return to The Ocean Race in 2027 and the 2028 Vendée Globe – with a typically bold IMOCA project of his own.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni Welcomes America's Cup in Rome
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has welcomed the America’s Cup trophy to Italy in a glitzy ceremony in Rome. With Naples set to host in 2027, Meloni hailed the event as a symbol of innovation, pride, and opportunity for southern Italy.
Dragon Slayers
Andy Beadsworth, Simon Fry, and Enes Caylak recently laid waste to a 50-boat fleet at the International Dragon World Championship in Vilamoura, Portugal. Justin Chisholm caught up with Beadsworth for an exclusive chat about his time in the class and winning his third Dragon world title.
Is your crew physically and mentally prepared for the Rolex Fastnet Race?
Professional sailor, performance coach, and physiotherapist, Hannah Diamond, offers some food for thought for the multitudes of skippers and crews preparing for this summer's Rolex Fastnet Race.
Unpacking the Draft Protocol for the 38th America's Cup
The draft AC38 Protocol outlines major changes for the next America’s Cup, including a new crew format, nationality rules, cost controls, and the creation of a team-led partnership to manage future Cups.
Challengers Call For Transparency As AC38 Protocol Lags Behind Venue Announcement
Challenger teams Athena Racing and American Magic have voiced concerns over the announcement of Naples as host of AC38, calling for protocol clarity before making major commitments. With tensions rising, the Cup community awaits the next move in this unfolding dispute.
Emirates Team New Zealand Responds To Criticism And Releases Draft AC38 Protocol
America's Cup Defenders Emirates Team New Zealand have responded to yesterday's critical statements by Athena Racing and NYYC American Magic with a counter statement and the release of a draft version of the AC38 Protocol.
NYYC American Magic Also Calls For Improved Transparency And Cooperation Around AC38
In a statement issued today the U.S. team describes it as being 'at a crossroads' with regards to the 38th America's Cup.
Ben Ainslie's Athena Racing 'Concerned' Over Lack Of Transparency Around AC38 Venue Announcement
The Challenger of Record representing Royal Yacht Squadron Ltd. believes that announcing Naples, Italy as the venue for AC38 before the release of an agreed protocol document is premature and is asking for more transparency and cooperation between the Defender and the Challengers.
Dylan Fletcher: From Youth Racing to the Big Leagues - Pt.2
In Part 2 of this exclusive story we chart Dylan Fletcher's path from Olympic gold to America’s Cup helmsman and his return to SailGP, revealing the highs, setbacks, and lessons that shaped his rise to the top of professional sailing.
America's Cup Notebook
Challenger reactions to Naples being named host city for the 38th America's Cup have been muted, but behind the scenes the politics are heating up—with rumours swirling, national rules in question, and commercial deals in play as teams weigh their next moves.
Dylan Fletcher: From Youth Racing to the Big Leagues - Pt.1
From junior club racing to Olympic gold and helming at the America’s Cup and in SailGP – Dylan Fletcher’s rise through the ranks of British sailing is a story of skill, resilience, and relentless ambition.
How Over A Decade Of Persistence Won The SB20 World Title
British owner/driver John Pollard’s victory at the SB20 World Championship in Singapore earlier this year shows just how far grit, determination and organisation can take you in competitive sailing – writes Andy Rice.
44Cup Thriller in Porto Cervo Ends with Nika on Top
Team Nika mastered the shifting conditions in Porto Cervo to win the 44Cup’s second event of the season, holding off Artemis Racing and impressive newcomers GeMera in a thrilling finale that showcased the RC44 fleet at its competitive best.
Defending Your Skin Inside & Out
Dermatologist Dr Edit Olasz, founder of Harken Derm, gives an update on 360° sun protection for sailing athletes
Former Winners Target Rebooted Team Racing World Championship
A new format, a different type of boat and a 10-year gap are all conspiring to tear apart any attempt to build a form guide for the 2025 Team Racing World Championship, which is set for May 28 to June 1 at the New York Yacht Club Harbour Court – writes Stuart Streuli.
Naples, Italy To Host 38th Louis Vuitton America's Cup
It’s official: the 38th Louis Vuitton America’s Cup will be contested in the Italian city of Naples over the Spring and early summer of 2027
New IMOCA Human Performance Study
What toll does the Vendée Globe take on solo sailors? New research reveals dramatic physical and psychological effects—from shrinking height to muscle loss and balance issues—comparable to astronauts. The IMOCA Human Performance Project may reshape how sailors prepare and recover.
Nathan Outteridge Named Skipper As Emirates Team New Zealand Reveal Core AC38 Line-Up
Emirates Team New Zealand has named Nathan Outteridge as skipper and confirmed key crew for AC38, including surprise recruit Chris Draper. The move hints at relaxed nationality rules as anticipation builds for the protocol release and venue announcement.
Family Affair: Markus Törnqvist Takes On His Dad Torbjörn in the 44Cup
Markus Törnqvist makes his 44Cup debut at the helm of GeMera, a brand-new RC44 backed by a powerhouse crew including Francesco Bruni and Kyle Langford, as a new generation joins the high-performance owner-driver fleet.
Raising the bar further
This new 123ft flagship design is a significant step up for Southern Wind.
RC44s Return to Porto Cervo with a Full House
The 44Cup returns to Porto Cervo with 11 teams on the line for the first time since 2016. With new entries, Olympic talent, and a legendary venue, the competition is set to deliver fierce racing in one of sailing’s most iconic settings.
Editor’s Notebook
Could There Be A More Magnificent Class Than France's Ocean-Conquering Ultims?
All together now
A new look and location, but the same Superyacht Cup Palma spirit – writes Phil Riley.
First Green Shoots For The 38th America's Cup?
Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli is back on the water, kicking off their America’s Cup training in Cagliari. Their AC40’s first sail of 2025 signals renewed commitment amid recent team withdrawals and hints at progress towards AC38.
Charlie Dalin Is Ready to Defend His IMOCA Globe Series Title
If you follow the IMOCA Class, you will know that Charlie Dalin is a serial race winner, and last season he emerged for the third time in his career as IMOCA Globe Series Champion in a year capped off by a record-breaking victory in the Vendée Globe.
What Should Change for AC38? A Wishlist for the Next America’s Cup
Plenty of rumours are swirling about what AC38’s Protocol will include, but why wait? Here’s my purely speculative take on what should change — from reviving the World Series to spicing up match racing and putting more real sailors on the boats.
Canada Ocean Racing Ups The Ante
Scott Shawyer's Canada Ocean Racing has purchased a proven foiling IMOCA – Emira IV – the boat on which the 11th Hour Racing Team won The Ocean Race and Sébastien Simon finished third in the last Vendée Globe.
NorthStar's Joe Glanfield on Coaching in SailGP's High-Speed Arena
SailGP coaches now operate from F1-style booths, using live data and comms to become vital race-day tacticians. Canadian coach Joe Glanfield explains the balance between performance and development — and why guiding, not instructing, is key to success in this cutting-edge arena.
Optimised for Racing
The latest kit from Henri-Lloyd is designed with regattas foremost in mind.
What Can Fleet Racers Learn From the Match Race Pros?
Watching the 60th Congressional Cup online over the weekend I was blown away by the expertise on show from some of the best match racing crews in the world. I was also struck by how much of what I was watching could be applied by the rest of us mere mortals to improve our fleet racing performance.
My Favourite America's Cup? AC34 in San Francisco in 2013.
America's Cup fans all have a favourite edition – for me hands down it's the 34th America's Cup held in San Francisco Bay in 2013. Here's why.
Pip Hare Joins Canada Ocean Racing for The Ocean Race Europe
Canada Ocean Racing has given a significant boost to its Be Water Positive Ocean Race Europe campaign with the addition of British offshore sailor Pip Hare, who will sail alongside skipper Scott Shawyer in the four-person crew for the 2025 edition of the race this summer.
The Admiral’s Cup Is Back – And It's About Time
Once hailed as "the unofficial world championship of offshore racing," the Admiral’s Cup is back—and the sailing world is buzzing.
Mixed Doubles
I didn't think I was going to be, but somehow I've found myself hooked on the adventure story that is the 2025 Transat Parec, where a fleet of 19 mixed sex Beneteau 3 crews are fighting it out on a racecourse that takes them from Concarneau, France across the Atlantic to St Barths.
Could this new 45ft foiler be the missing link?
Giuliano Luzzato shares the inside scoop on the Metis 45, which aims to bridge the gap between the avowedly simple Class40 and complex IMOCA.
Runners and Riders for 52 Super Series St Tropez Season Opener
The 2025 52 Super Series season kicks off next week in Saint-Tropez with 11 teams locked, loaded, and ready after months of prep. No clear favorite means wide-open racing on the Côte d'Azur as the world's best TP52 crews chase early glory on one of sailing’s biggest stages.
Matosinhos-Porto Fly-By completes the route for The Ocean Race Europe
With this summer’s edition of The Ocean Race Europe fast approaching, race organizers have confirmed the final piece of the puzzle: a high-stakes Fly-By in Matosinhos-Porto, Portugal, during Leg 2 of the event.
Young Gun Match Racers Assemble in Long Beach for Ficker Cup
There’s no room for faint hearts or fluffed manoeuvres this weekend as eight match racing teams swagger into Long Beach, Ca. for the 2025 Ficker Cup — a bruising, no-second-chances shootout where only two crews will emerge with golden tickets to the big dance: the 60th Congressional Cup.
Billionaire Bailout?
The exit of two billionaire-backed syndicates – Sir Jim Ratcliffe's Ineos Britannia and Ernesto Bertarelli's Alinghi Red Bull Racing – as potential challengers for the 38th America's Cup is a worrying indicator for the future of sailing's oldest and most prestigious competition.
Heading Home
The 2025 season started well for maxi yachting: first was the RORC Transatlantic Race followed by the latest venture for maxis in the Caribbean, an inshore regatta, the Nelson’s Cup Maxi Series, followed immediately by the RORC Caribbean 600 – reports IMA Secretary General, Andrew McIrvine.
Returning Heroes
When a single point decided the 2024 52 Super Series season championship, no one wants to start the 2025 circuit by giving anything away in the first few races of May's 2025 season opening event in Saint Tropez.
Rob Wilson: Inside The Life Of A SailGP Coach
Emirates Great Britain SailGP Team coach Rob Wilson shares his insights into the evolution of the SailGP coaching role—from limited chase boat support to giving real-time tactical input from a high-tech booth ashore—and gives us a behind-the-scenes look at one of SailGP's most high pressure roles.
Alinghi Red Bull Racing Pulls Out of AC38
There was more bad news for America’s Cup holders Emirates Team New Zealand over the Easter weekend, as Swiss syndicate Alinghi Red Bull Racing confirmed it will not be mounting a challenge for the 38th America’s Cup.
British Vendée Globe Skipper Sam Goodchild
Justin Chisholm’s guest on the Yacht Racing Life Podcast is the British solo around-the-world sailor Sam Goodchild.
Launching into Europe
With military-spec materials, design awards and pro sailor endorsements, Mustang Survival unveils its new ranges of lifejackets and foul weather gear.
Michel Desjoyeaux’s Unforgettable 2008-09 Vendée Globe Comeback Victory
We take an fond look back to 2008-09 when the now legendary French solo skipper Michel Desjoyeaux staged the greatest comeback in Vendée Globe history—starting last but overtaking every rival to win the solo around-the-world race for an unprecedented second time.
Billy Gooderham: Taming the T-Foils
Canada SailGP Team flight controller Billy Gooderham gives an in-depth look at what it takes to fly the SailGP F50 catamarans. From handling the upgraded T-foils, to refining muscle memory and managing complex controls, he breaks down the evolving challenges of this high-stakes role.
The ‘Club’ Problem
Magnus Wheatley explores the challenges facing yacht clubs today – from declining membership to rising costs – and argues that clubs focusing on fun, accessibility, and community sailing, thrive—while those don't, risk decline.
Lebrun Holds Nerve to Win 2025 Finn European Championship
Valérian Lebrun had led from the front for most of the week, but it wasn’t until the very last moments of the final race on Saturday that he could be sure.
Colaninno Surges but Lebrun Maintains Control
The 2025 Open Finn European Championship is edging towards its conclusion with a compelling mix of consistency and resurgence from the the top 10 protagonists.
End of an era: Peter Burling leaves Emirates Team New Zealand
The three-time America's Cup winner's exit comes after he and the Kiwi team failed to agree terms ahead of the 38th America's Cup.
Lebrun Holds Slim Lead as Finn Europeans Head Into Final Days in Italy
As the 2025 Open Finn European Championship moves into its final stretch, France’s Valérian Lebrun continues to lead after six races, though Italy’s Federico Colaninno put in the day’s standout performance to climb into fourth overall with a win and a second on Thursday.
SailGP Rio Cancellation Confirmed After Rig Checks Reveal Structural Flaws
SailGP has officially called off its Rio de Janeiro event, originally slated for May 3–4, after uncovering a structural flaw in the wingsails of several the circuit's fleet of F50 yachts—a safety concern serious enough to bring the globe-trotting circuit to a sudden halt, five events into Season 5.
Opinion: Ainslie Unmoved as Ratcliffe Bows Out
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s America’s Cup story just ended not with a bang, but with a finger-point and a disappearing act. The British billionaire formally stepped away yesterday from what would have been his third Cup campaign—news that came via a frosty press release and landed with a thud.
Revitalised Superyacht Cup Palma Set to Deliver with 29th Edition
There’s a fresh energy pulsing through the Superyacht Cup Palma, and as it prepares to mark its 29th edition this June, the vibe is unmistakably upbeat.
Lebrun Extends Lead on Day 2 of Finn Europeans in Naples
Under the looming silhouette of Mount Vesuvius, the 2025 Open Finn European Championship continued on Wednesday with France’s Valérian Lebrun extending his overall lead to nine points after two more physically demanding and tactically rich races on the Bay of Naples.
Two by Two: The Fastnet's Fiercest Fleet Gathers Steam
Doublehanded racing at the Rolex Fastnet Race isn’t just thriving—it’s now one of the most compelling storylines on the course. With more top-tier short-handed teams and cutting-edge designs on the starting line, the 2025 edition is shaping up to be one for the books.
A synchronised ballet as Sevenstar’s tandem lift manoeuvres 30m racers to the Caribbean
Transporting racing yachts involves complex choreography. If those racing yachts are the 28.3m Bullitt, 30.5m V and 34.5m Galateia, the complexity jumps exponentially, especially when two are loaded in Genoa, and one in Palma de Mallorca.
Lebrun Leads Finn Europeans After Tactical Opening Day in Naples
Under a clear Mediterranean sky, the Gulf of Naples delivered a complex and capricious challenge on the opening day of the 2025 Open Finn European Championship.
Elodie Bonafous: On the Road to the Vendée Globe
With a brand-new IMOCA and her sights set on the 2028 Vendée Globe, Elodie Bonafous is ready to make her mark. Alexander Champy-McLean sat down with France’s latest rising star to find out what drives her, and how she plans to take on the toughest race in sailing.
Francesca Clapcich
Justin Chisholm's guest on the latest episode of the Yacht Racing Life Podcast is Italian / American sailor Francesca Clapcich.
Emma Wilson Leads British Revival In Palma
Under perfect spring skies and a golden Mediterranean breeze, the 54th Trofeo Princesa Sofía Mallorca drew to a close on Saturday with British sailor Emma Wilson lifting the event’s highest individual honour: the overall winner’s trophy, awarded to the event's standout performance.
Beckett Secures Fourth Palma Victory as Medal Races Await
As Olympic sailing’s new cycle toward Los Angeles 2028 gathers pace, the 54th Trofeo Princesa Sofía regatta in Palma is set for a dramatic final act on Saturday. Ten classes will contest their medal races in the Bay of Palma’s familiar breeze, but only one sailor will enter without any pressure.
Editor's Notebook
Full disclosure, while doing some 'research' for some stories on the website, I tripped and fell head first down the YouTube rabbit hole. It took me a while to find my way out – and that's why this Editor's Notebook is all about the three great sailing films I came across while I was down there.
Maeder Returns to Top Spot as Trofeo Princesa Sofía Heats Up
For many of the world’s top sailors, the Trofeo Princesa Sofía regatta in Mallorca is not just a competition but a checkpoint—a place to restore momentum, rebuild confidence, and shake off the residual disappointment or rust from a long Olympic campaign.
Paul Goodison on Dual Helming, Simulators, and Collaboration with a Past Rival
On a recent episode of the Yacht Racing Life Podcast Paul Goodison reflected on his AC38 campaign with NYYC American Magic, and peeled back the curtain on the challenges of dual helming, simulator evolution, working with past Laser rival Tom Slingsby, and what it's actually like to steer an AC75.
Britain’s Beckett Extends Lead as Gold Fleet Racing Heats Up in Palma
With classes moving into the Gold fleet phase today at the 54 Trofeo Princesa Sofía Mallorca on Mallorca’s Bay of Palma, so the intensity stepped up and consistency became most important.
Used boats can win
You don’t need a big budget, a shiny new boat, or a crew stacked with pros to be competitive offshore these days. That’s not some clever marketing line—it’s reality.
Featured Photographer: Daniel Forster
“There are no bleachers offshore.” With this simple phrase, Swiss photographer Daniel Forster sums up the ethos behind a career spanning over five decades spent chasing light, wind, and waves in some of the most challenging—and beautiful—conditions on earth.
Red Moon Rising
Luna Rossa were among the hot favourites for AC37 but crashed out in the challenger final. Now, with lessons learned and a restructured team, Italy’s Red Moon is rising fast for AC38. While rivals are mired in protocol spats the Italians are already back on the water and surging ahead.
Emirates Team New Zealand Unswayed By 'Gang of Three' Statement Onslaught
The America's Cup Defender Emirates Team New Zealand has responded to yesterday's barrage of critical statements from the Swiss, British, and American challengers with a curt public rebuttal.
AC38: Athena Racing and American Magic issue follow up statements
Both the British Challenger of Record Athena Racing and American Magic have issued their own statements following the one issued earlier today by Alinghi Red Bull Racing.
Alinghi Red Bull Racing Weighs In To Support British And American Challenger Concerns
Despite withdrawing last month as a potential challenger for the 38th America's Cup, Switzerland's Alinghi Red Bull Racing has today released a statement supporting the stance taken by the British and American teams in calling for more transparency from the Defender – Emirates Team New Zealand.
Naples Steps into the Spotlight for the 38th America’s Cup
Today Naples officially kicked off its role as host of the 38th America’s Cup with a stunning presentation at Castel dell’Ovo. Italian leaders and Cup officials celebrated the city’s sailing legacy and looked ahead to 2027 with pride, purpose, and a clear vision for what’s to come.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni Welcomes America's Cup in Rome
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has welcomed the America’s Cup trophy to Italy in a glitzy ceremony in Rome. With Naples set to host in 2027, Meloni hailed the event as a symbol of innovation, pride, and opportunity for southern Italy.
Unpacking the Draft Protocol for the 38th America's Cup
The draft AC38 Protocol outlines major changes for the next America’s Cup, including a new crew format, nationality rules, cost controls, and the creation of a team-led partnership to manage future Cups.
Challengers Call For Transparency As AC38 Protocol Lags Behind Venue Announcement
Challenger teams Athena Racing and American Magic have voiced concerns over the announcement of Naples as host of AC38, calling for protocol clarity before making major commitments. With tensions rising, the Cup community awaits the next move in this unfolding dispute.
Emirates Team New Zealand Responds To Criticism And Releases Draft AC38 Protocol
America's Cup Defenders Emirates Team New Zealand have responded to yesterday's critical statements by Athena Racing and NYYC American Magic with a counter statement and the release of a draft version of the AC38 Protocol.
NYYC American Magic Also Calls For Improved Transparency And Cooperation Around AC38
In a statement issued today the U.S. team describes it as being 'at a crossroads' with regards to the 38th America's Cup.
Ben Ainslie's Athena Racing 'Concerned' Over Lack Of Transparency Around AC38 Venue Announcement
The Challenger of Record representing Royal Yacht Squadron Ltd. believes that announcing Naples, Italy as the venue for AC38 before the release of an agreed protocol document is premature and is asking for more transparency and cooperation between the Defender and the Challengers.
America's Cup Notebook
Challenger reactions to Naples being named host city for the 38th America's Cup have been muted, but behind the scenes the politics are heating up—with rumours swirling, national rules in question, and commercial deals in play as teams weigh their next moves.
Naples, Italy To Host 38th Louis Vuitton America's Cup
It’s official: the 38th Louis Vuitton America’s Cup will be contested in the Italian city of Naples over the Spring and early summer of 2027
Nathan Outteridge Named Skipper As Emirates Team New Zealand Reveal Core AC38 Line-Up
Emirates Team New Zealand has named Nathan Outteridge as skipper and confirmed key crew for AC38, including surprise recruit Chris Draper. The move hints at relaxed nationality rules as anticipation builds for the protocol release and venue announcement.
First Green Shoots For The 38th America's Cup?
Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli is back on the water, kicking off their America’s Cup training in Cagliari. Their AC40’s first sail of 2025 signals renewed commitment amid recent team withdrawals and hints at progress towards AC38.
What Should Change for AC38? A Wishlist for the Next America’s Cup
Plenty of rumours are swirling about what AC38’s Protocol will include, but why wait? Here’s my purely speculative take on what should change — from reviving the World Series to spicing up match racing and putting more real sailors on the boats.
Billionaire Bailout?
The exit of two billionaire-backed syndicates – Sir Jim Ratcliffe's Ineos Britannia and Ernesto Bertarelli's Alinghi Red Bull Racing – as potential challengers for the 38th America's Cup is a worrying indicator for the future of sailing's oldest and most prestigious competition.
End of an era: Peter Burling leaves Emirates Team New Zealand
The three-time America's Cup winner's exit comes after he and the Kiwi team failed to agree terms ahead of the 38th America's Cup.
Opinion: Ainslie Unmoved as Ratcliffe Bows Out
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s America’s Cup story just ended not with a bang, but with a finger-point and a disappearing act. The British billionaire formally stepped away yesterday from what would have been his third Cup campaign—news that came via a frosty press release and landed with a thud.
No America's Cup Homecoming As New Zealand Government Rules Out Auckland
For the second consecutive America’s Cup cycle, the holders will not defend the trophy on home waters. Despite months of behind-the-scenes negotiations and public hope for a return to Auckland, Emirates Team New Zealand confirmed today that it will not stage the 2027 regatta in the City of Sails.
A Selfless Spirit: What It Takes to Make It in the America's Cup
The America’s Cup is often seen as the pinnacle of sailing—a glamorous world where only the best of the best get to compete for one of the sport's most coveted trophies. The boats are cutting-edge, the athletes are elite, and the stakes are sky-high.
Data and AI Continue to Redefine the America’s Cup
The modern era America’s Cup is often characterised by its breathtaking speeds, cutting-edge yacht designs, and fierce competition on the water. But behind the scenes a secretive world of data analytics, artificial intelligence, and performance management is playing an increasingly crucial role.
What do Barcelona’s Big Numbers mean for the Future of the America’s Cup?
Yacht Racing Life is a reader-supported publication for fans of sailing and sailboat racing everywhere. If you enjoy our content then please consider becoming a free or paid member. Having lived and breathed the 37th America’s Cup in Barcelona from the inside for over a year – initially as a
Cut and Paste
The quandary over which of the two British Knights of the Realm – Sir Ben Ainslie or Sir Jim Ratcliffe – will be representing the Royal Yacht Squadron as the official Challenger of Record at the 38th America’s Cup was resolved this week – and in a most discreet and understated way.
Will cool heads prevail?
The breakup between INEOS and Athena Racing could put British America's Cup hopes back decades
INEOS to challenge for AC38 without Ainslie
Terse corporate statement confirms 'a challenge for the 38th America’s Cup under the team name INEOS Britannia after parting ways with Sir Ben Ainslie.’
Emirates Team New Zealand make history in Barcelona with third consecutive America's Cup victory
Subscribe now Emirates Team New Zealand concluded a historic chapter, winning the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup after an epic final showdown in Barcelona against the Challenger of Record, INEOS Britannia, in a single race that ebbed and flowed from the outset but ultimately saw the Kiwis secure victory
Kiwi brilliance takes Emirates Team New Zealand to Match Point in the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup Match
Subscribe now It was a fired-up, proficient and efficient Emirates Team New Zealand that aced the hardest to interpret wind direction here in Barcelona and took two clean races off the fast-charging Challenger of Record, INEOS Britannia who left very little out on the water today but succumbed to a
INEOS Britannia fight back with two wins on fourth day of Louis Vuitton 37th America's Cup
Subscribe now A warm and humid day in Barcelona yielded southerly thermal breezes of 7-11 knots for two absorbing races in the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup Match that saw INEOS Britannia, the Challenger of Record, take back-to-back victories to move the scoreline to 4-2. The wins also served
Tight racing as Emirates Team New Zealand take fourth straight win in Louis Vuitton 37th America's Cup CUP Match
Subscribe now In a closely fought race that rewarded the most marginal of gains, Emirates Team New Zealand took one more point in the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup Match this afternoon in Barcelona, with a fourth consecutive victory over INEOS Britannia that advanced them to within three points
Start box drama as Emirates Team New Zealand extend to 3-0 in Louis Vuitton 37th America's Cup Match
There was ruthless execution on display in the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup Match as Emirates Team New Zealand extended their advantage to 3-0 after forcing a penalty on the Challenger of Record INEOS Britannia in the pre-start period of the only race completed today in Barcelona. Conditions were
Emirates Team New Zealand win opening two races of Louis Vuitton 37th America's Cup Match
Subscribe now There was a special feeling in the Port Vell, Barcelona this afternoon as Emirates Team New Zealand and INEOS Britannia docked-out of a packed waterway and despite the drizzle, crowds thronged around the harbour as packed pleasure-craft honked horns to send off these two elite teams that are
Drama on fifth day of Louis Vuitton Cup Final as British and Italians remain even at 4-4
Subscribe now The Louis Vuitton Cup Final between INEOS Britannia and Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli is starting to resemble the most tense of penalty shoot-outs. Every time one team feels they have the upper-hand, the other responds and at the end of another truly outstanding day of super-high-octane racing in
Heavyweights all square in electrifying Louis Vuitton Cup Final
Subscribe now The decision to utilise the first Reserve Day of the Louis Vuitton Cup proved to be a far-sighted one by Race Director, Iain Murray, as perfect conditions greeted INEOS Britannia and Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli today for the fourth day of their epic, locked-in battle to win the
All tied in the Louis Vuitton Cup Final as second day's only race is timed out
Subscribe now After a near two-hour delay waiting for a southerly ‘Migjorn’ thermal breeze to eke its way above the wind-limit of 6.5 knots, finally racing got underway between INEOS Britannia and Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli just after 1600 CET on the second day of their epic first-to-seven-points Louis
Honours even for British and Italian crews on opening day of Louis Vuitton Cup Final
Subscribe now If proof were required as to just how closely matched the two teams in the Louis Vuitton Cup Final are, today in stunning and breezy Barcelona conditions, INEOS Britannia and Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli went toe-to-toe throughout the day’s two races and at the end shared a
Editors’ Picks
Admiral’s Cup Contenders Go Head-to-Head at IRC Nationals
This weekend’s British IRC National Championship in Cowes, England was an early opportunity for a handful of the international crews set to contest next month’s Admiral’s Cup to test their mettle against each other on the unpredictable waters of the Solent.
What's taking so long?
As the Admiral’s Cup mandates female crew on board, top sailors share mixed views. Is it tokenism or progress? Joy Fitzgerald, Abby Ehler and others weigh in — and the debate highlights how far offshore sailing has come, and how far it still has to go.
It's 20 years since Ellen MacArthur's record setting solo circumnavigation
Whisper it (or maybe shout it from the rooftops), because hardly anybody seems to have noticed, but it was 20 years ago this year that Ellen MacArthur broke the solo round-the-world sailing record on board her trimaran B&Q – writes Ed Gorman.