The Swiss statement welcomes the choice of Naples as the venue for the next cycle of the America's Cup, but goes on to echo the statements from the British Challenger of Record Athena Racing and NYYC American Magic, who both argued that announcing the venue before agreeing the protocol for AC38 was a case of putting the cart before the horse.
Although the Swiss syndicate had claimed to have started winding itself down after failing to agree with Emirates Team New Zealand on plans for the next Cup, this had been questioned publicly by New Zealand boss Grant Dalton. Now, according to the concluding paragraphs of today's statement, there is still a chance Alinghi could yet mount a challenge for the 2027 event – providing 'a protocol between the Defender and the Challenger of Record can be agreed that establishes an equitable sporting framework for the racing and a commercially viable event for all America’s Cup stakeholders'.
The full statement reads as follows:
When Alinghi Red Bull Racing withdrew in April from consideration for the 38th America's Cup, we did so because we had serious concerns about the administration and governance of the Cup by the Defender, Team New Zealand.
While we wholeheartedly welcome the choice of Naples as a perfect host venue for the Cup in 2027, our concerns were deepened yesterday when Team New Zealand celebrated the announcement of the host venue at an event in the city.
They had no right to do so without first having agreed a protocol with the Challenger of Record, Athena Racing, who were not consulted on the host venue arrangements which critically impact all challenging teams with regards to cost and logistics.
In signing a commercial deal with the host city that includes the Challenger Selection Series of races for the Louis Vuitton Cup, Team New Zealand have sold something they do not own the rights to. This is not acceptable.
Additionally, the lack of transparency over the terms of the venue deal struck by Team New Zealand begs the question: How can a venue be agreed without either the host city or any of the challenger teams knowing what form of regatta will take place?
This is just the latest demonstration of the Defender's failure to live up to its fiduciary duties as the Trustee of the America's Cup.
These growing concerns about the governance of the Cup is why Société Nautique de Genève has written to the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron raising questions about the administration of the competition by Team New Zealand and requesting information relating to RNZYS's responsibilities and duties as Trustee.
As a two-time winner of the Cup and a former Trustee ourselves, Alinghi will always feel a responsibility to the America’s Cup and believe that those who organize and run the event should always seek to put the collective interest of the Cup above all else.
Like Athena Racing and American Magic, we believe that a successful America's Cup hinges on openness, trust, and a shared understanding among all participants. We remain hopeful that a protocol between the Defender and the Challenger of Record can be agreed that establishes an equitable sporting framework for the racing and a commercially viable event for all America’s Cup stakeholders.
If this can be achieved, then Alinghi is ready to explore ways that we can be part of that future, especially in the wonderful city of Naples in 2027, a truly fitting setting for the world’s greatest sailing competition.
Get all areas access to Yacht Racing Life with a Full Membership free 30-day trial. There's no obligation and you can cancel at anytime.
