Emirates Team New Zealand has completed its first training session on the Bay of Naples, marking its first time sailing on the racecourse that will host the 38th America's Cup in 2027. The defending champions launched both of their AC40 foiling monohulls in a 10-to-15-knot sea breeze, using the opening day to begin gathering data and experience on the Italian venue.
The training block is timed to match the conditions expected during next year's America's Cup Match. It also forms part of the team's build-up to the second Preliminary Regatta, which will be held in Naples from 24 to 27 September.
Skipper Nathan Outteridge said the opportunity to sail on the future racecourse was invaluable. "It really is very special to be out here. To get a first-hand look at the racecourse and start feeling out the conditions in the exact window we'll be racing in next year is a massive opportunity for us," he said.
Course Talk: Emirates Team New Zealand sailors Iain Jensen (left) and skipper Nathan Outteridge discuss conditions during the defenders' opening AC40 training session on the Bay of Naples ahead of the 2027 America's Cup. Photo: Ian Roman
Outteridge said the two-boat AC40 programme would also sharpen the team's preparations for September's preliminary event. "We had a really good first day. Two boats out there on the racecourse for the first time with beautiful sailing conditions. Overall, it was a solid first day here in Naples."
Flight Controller Andy Maloney said running two AC40s side by side would accelerate the team's understanding of the venue. "Having both AC40s out here allows us to push each other and really explore the nuances of the bay," he said. "It's a pretty spectacular location with the city of Naples spanning up the surrounding hills and Mount Vesuvius in the background."
Chief Operating Officer Kevin Shoebridge said the venue reinforced the scale of the challenge awaiting the defenders. "Being in Naples is a reminder of why the 38th America's Cup will be such a special event, but also how tough it is going to be on the water with six strong challengers."
Emirates Team New Zealand will remain in Naples over the coming weeks, refining systems and building knowledge of the race area before returning to Auckland, where development of its AC75 programme continues.
