The largest number of entries for the America’s Cup in 20 years has been confirmed after Australia’s Royal Prince Edward Yacht Club announced they will participate in next year’s event in Naples.
Team Australia has confirmed their challenge, taking the number of fleets to seven, and have the backing ofJohn Winning and family, who supported the country’s entries in the Youth and Women’s America’s Cup in Barcelona in 2024.
Olympic gold medallist Tom Slingsby has joined the team as head of sailing, while Grant Simmer has been appointed as chief executive of Team Australia.
Simmer, who was part of the Australia II winning campaign in 1983, said the upcoming campaign is personal and exciting.
“I first became involved in the America’s Cup in the early 1980s and was fortunate to be part of the legendary Australia II team that changed the course of the Cup forever,” Simmer said.
“Since then, I’ve been involved in every America’s Cup edition, including Australia’s successful hosting of the event in Fremantle, still regarded as one of the greatest Cups in history.
Team Australia have confirmed their challenge for the 38th America's Cup. Photo / Supplied
Slingsby said the chance to represent Australia at the America’s Cup is something that means a lot to him.
“It’s been a dream throughout my career to be part of bringing Australia back to the Cup in a meaningful way,” Slingsby said.
“To now have that opportunity alongside Herman Winning, a close friend of more than 30 years, makes it even more special.
“There’s a huge sense of excitement around what we’re building together, and I’m incredibly proud to be part of the beginning of this new chapter for Australian sailing.”
The 38th America’s Cup has brought in a new rule that requires at least one female sailor to be included in the crew.
For Tash Bryant, who will be that sailor for Team Australia, the rule marked a major moment for the future of the sport.
“This feels like an exciting new era for the America’s Cup,” she said.
“The evolution of the boats and the competition is opening the door to broader opportunities and visibility for women in elite sailing, while also creating clearer pathways for younger generations coming through the sport.
“For young Australian sailors watching this campaign launch today, that representation and ambition matters greatly.”
Team Australia are among the challengers hoping to face Emirates Team New Zealand, who will be trying to defend their Cup title.
