America’s Cup preliminary regattas in 2023 and 2024
Look back at the America’s Cup preliminary regattas in Vilanova i la Geltrú, Jeddah and Barcelona, the dates in 2023 and 2024 and the AC40 and AC75 classes.
The 37th America’s Cup preliminary regattas took place in 2023 and 2024, before Barcelona’s challenger selection. This historical article retains its publication date; dates can be checked in the official 2024 schedule.
Three venues for preliminary racing
- Vilanova i La Geltrú: The first preliminary regatta took place here from 14 to 17 September 2023.
- Jeddah, Saudi Arabia: Teams raced here from 29 November to 2 December 2023.
- Barcelona: The third and final preliminary regatta took place from 22 to 25 August 2024 with the teams’ AC75s.
The first two regattas used AC40s in 2023. Barcelona hosted the third from 22 to 25 August 2024, with the teams’ AC75s.
Competing Teams in the America’s Cup
The six teams in the Barcelona edition were:
- Emirates Team New Zealand: The New Zealand team took part as the defender.
- INEOS Britannia: The British team took part as a challenger.
- Alinghi Red Bull Racing: The Swiss team took part in preliminary racing and challenger selection.
- Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli and NYYC American Magic: The Italian and American teams both took part.
- Orient Express Racing Team: The French team completed Barcelona’s line-up of six participants.
Barcelona also hosted youth and women’s events. Read the historical guide to the 2024 America’s Cup teams.
The Sailcrafts: AC40 & AC75
The AC40s used in the 2023 regattas shared a standardised design. The teams raced their AC75s in Barcelona in 2024, distinguishing the earlier preliminary format from Barcelona’s preliminary regatta and the main competition.
Where Were the Preliminary Regattas Held?
- Vilanova i La Geltrú: Once called ‘Havana Xica’ or ‘Little Havana,’ Vilanova i La Geltrú is Spain’s epitome of culture and heritage. Its seafront promenade, fishermen’s houses, and mouthwatering seafood delicacies, notably the renowned xató dish, make it Catalonia’s crown jewel.
- Jeddah: Regarded as Saudi Arabia’s luxurious port, Jeddah beautifully merges its historical center, Al Balad, with modern luxury near the Jeddah Yacht Club and Marina. Its waterfront offers mesmerizing views, and the ‘Floating Mosque’ stands as a testament to its grandeur. The city’s motto, ‘Jeddah is Different,’ encapsulates its vibrant and diverse nature.
- Barcelona: Barcelona hosted the third preliminary regatta from 22 to 25 August 2024 with the teams’ AC75s.
The preliminary regattas formed part of the path to the Barcelona Match, which ended with Emirates Team New Zealand’s victory on 19 October 2024. The 2024 edition has concluded.
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