Emirates Team New Zealand Unveils Plans for 38th America's Cup Defense in Naples

Team to repurpose AC75 hull, focus on foils, sails, and control systems for performance gains

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Emirates Team New Zealand is laying the groundwork for its defense of the America's Cup in Naples in July 2027, revealing key aspects of its campaign strategy. The team will initially sail with the same AC75 hull that secured victory in Barcelona in 2024, but with significant modifications, particularly in the deck area and a complete overhaul of the control systems. The sailing squad has limited experience with the AC75, presenting a training challenge, but the team is targeting substantial performance improvements through advancements in foils, sails, and control systems.

Why it matters

The America's Cup is one of the most prestigious sailing competitions in the world, and Emirates Team New Zealand's defense of the title in Naples will be closely watched. The team's decision to repurpose its existing AC75 hull and focus on targeted performance upgrades highlights the importance of cost-effective innovation in the sport, as well as the ongoing technological advancements that are shaping the future of competitive sailing.

The details

Emirates Team New Zealand will launch its repurposed AC75 in Auckland, with sailing expected to commence as early as Tuesday, March 10, 2026. The team is targeting substantial performance improvements, with a focus on reducing weight, improving foil technology, optimizing sail design, and enhancing control systems. While the team will not be sailing the AC75 in Europe during the European summer, it will leverage its AC40 program to gain a thorough understanding of the specific conditions and nuances of the Naples venue.

  • Emirates Team New Zealand will launch its repurposed AC75 in Auckland as early as Tuesday, March 10, 2026.
  • The entry period for the 38th America's Cup closes at the end of March 2026, and at least one new team is anticipated to join the competition.
  • The Louis Vuitton 38th America's Cup Match will begin with two opening races on Saturday, July 10, 2027, and conclude over the weekend of July 17–18, 2027, in Naples.

The players

Emirates Team New Zealand

An American autonomous driving company and is a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., Google's parent company.

Nathan Outteridge

The skipper of Emirates Team New Zealand, emphasizing the importance of maximizing the limited 45 sailing days allocated before mid-January 2027.

Dan Bernasconi

The design team boss for Emirates Team New Zealand, highlighting the focus on lighter weight and advancements in foils, sails, and control systems.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.