America’s Cup: January is an important month because on the 21st we will know in detail what the precise dates of the America’s Cup will be, which will be held in Naples for the first time next year (with a probable repeat in 2029). Furthermore, in January it will be known where and when the preliminary regattas will be held and training with the new AC75s will be able to begin on January 16th. Finally, the deadline for registering for the historic regatta, now in its 38th edition, will expire on January 31st. Registration costs 7 million, plus a substantial penalty for those who register at the last moment. In fact, so far only Team New Zealand (the holders of the “Vecchia Brocca”, “Auld Mug”) and the British Athena Racing (Challenger of Record) are registered, while in the coming weeks the official membership of Luna Rossa, now in its seventh challenge, the Swiss Alinghi and the French K-Challenge should also arrive. Hopes that there will also be a crew made in the USA (perhaps Riptide Racing).
The America’s Cup has become an increasingly prestigious and rich event: it takes around 100 million to compete, but it brings in a turnover of around a billion for each edition. Only 4 Nations have lifted the trophy in 174 years of history.
A strong commitment is expected from the Italian government: the Bagnoli area where the logistics base will be located will be redeveloped and will become New York style with attractive parks and piers. There is (finally) an important team effort between Sport and Health of president Marco Mezzaroma and CEO Diego Nepi, the Campania Region of the new governor Fico and the Municipality of Naples of mayor Manfredi. The crews are ready to start training, special facilities must be built to accommodate these gigantic boats and the entire Bagnoli area must be redeveloped which will then remain for the population. The races will take place between Castel dell’Ovo and Posillipo. A major project that looks to the future and will attract the attention of the whole world to Naples and Italy. You can’t go wrong.
