The United States will return to the America’s Cup for the 2027 edition in Naples. American Racing Challenger Team USA has been confirmed as an official challenger for the Louis Vuitton 38th America’s Cup. The team represents Challenging Yacht Club Sail Newport and marks a significant return for US sailing.
The USA first won the Cup in 1851 and held it for 132 years, the longest winning streak in sport. Without this entry, the 2027 event would have been the first to be held without an American team.
The new challenge is led by Ken Read, a two-time Rolex Yachtsman of the Year. The team was founded by entrepreneurs Karel Komárek and Chris Welch.
Read said, “Having the opportunity to represent the United States once again… is a tremendous honour.” “We’re fully focused on building a team that can win the Cup,” he added. The team has acquired key assets from American Magic, including the AC75 Patriot and two AC40 platforms. These will form the foundation of its campaign for Naples 2027.
America’s Cup Partnership CEO Marzio Perrelli welcomed the entry. “Having a strong representative team from the USA is something that we welcome,” he said. Chairman Grant Dalton added the return of a US challenger is “fantastic for the overall event”.
The campaign will also work with US Sailing to support youth development and female participation. Chris Welch said the initiative goes beyond competition. “It’s about… helping shape the opening chapter of a new era in America’s Cup history,” he said.
Racing for the 38th America’s Cup will take place in Naples in spring and summer 2027.
