There was a time when sailing’s highest profile event, the America’s Cup, was one of the crown jewels of international sport—a dazzling spectacle dominated by billionaires, backed by major sponsors, and swarmed by celebrities. The event drew global television networks eager to pay top dollar for broadcast rights, while the super-rich spared no expense in pursuit of sailing’s oldest and most prestigious trophy. In its heyday, the Cup was not just a regatta—it was a cultural phenomenon. When Australia famously broke the United States’ 132-year winning streak in 1983, the impact rippled far beyond the water. Fremantle, the sleepy port city that would host the Cup’s defence, saw property prices soar almost overnight.
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In its glory days, the America’s Cup was as much a battleground for billionaires as it was a test of sailing prowess—a stage where wealth, ambition, and national pride collided in spectacular fashion. Titans of industry lined up to pour their fortunes into the pursuit of the Auld Mug, each convinced they could outspend and outwit their rivals to etch their name into sailing history. Media mogul Ted Turner famously led Courageous to victory in 1977, bringing a brash, cowboy swagger to the sport and helping turn the Cup into prime time entertainment. He was just one of many deep-pocketed personalities who viewed the America’s Cup not just as a sailing competition, but as the ultimate billionaire’s playground.
