The 38th America’s Cup will bring its high-speed foiling catamarans to Italian waters for the first time in history, transforming the Gulf of Naples into a global sailing hub between 2026 and 2027, according to organizers. The prestigious international competition will feature preliminary regates leading up to the final match in July 2027, drawing seven teams to race on the water.
Road to Naples Schedule and Key Dates
According to official scheduling details provided by event organizers, the “Road to Naples” pathway kicks off its preliminary stages in the spring of 2026. The opening preliminary regatta of the 38th America’s Cup is scheduled to run from May 21 to May 24, 2026, in Cagliari. Following that opening stop, the action shifts to the mainland as Napoli hosts a second preliminary regatta from September 24 to September 27, 2026. The ultimate showdown—the Louis Vuitton 38th America’s Cup final match—will commence on July 10, 2027, in the Gulf of Naples.
Competing Teams and Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli
They will face defending champion Emirates Team New Zealand, alongside prominent international challengers representing Great Britain, Switzerland, and France.
Tax Exemptions and Local Preparations
Ahead of the arrival of the fleets, regional and municipal authorities are putting infrastructure and economic frameworks in place. According to reports from Il Sole 24 Ore, a two-year exemption from Ires and Irap taxes has been established for all competing teams. Meanwhile, city officials in Napoli, alongside civic leaders including Roberto Fico and regional governor Alessandra Todde, have engaged in planning sessions and presented the city’s maritime assets at the official Race Village, as reported by ANSA and the Comune di Napoli.
Broadcasting and Live Streaming Details
Fans across Italy and around the globe will have multiple ways to follow the racing action. According to broadcast announcements, Sky Sport and the streaming service NOW will carry complete, uninterrupted coverage of the competition from the 2026 preliminaries through the 2027 finals. In addition, public broadcaster Rai will air all major regates—including the Youth America’s Cup and Women’s America’s Cup—free in-the-clear on television, with simultaneous live streaming available via RaiNews.it, as detailed by RaiNews.
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