The America’s Cup Partnership (ACP) was formally unveiled in Naples as Louis Vuitton confirmed the renewal of its title sponsorship for the Louis Vuitton 38th America’s Cup, marking a historic step in the evolution of the world’s oldest international sporting trophy.
The announcement took place in the grand setting of the Palazzo Reale, in the presence of international media, institutional leaders and representatives of the founding teams. Minister for Sport and Youth Andrea Abodi addressed the audience offering a warm welcome, saying: “Another step forward was taken with the launch of the America’s Cup Partnership, which continues and strengthens the path toward Naples 2027. This collaboration represents a bridge between the tradition and innovation of the world’s oldest sailing competition, propelling it toward a new phase of growth, modernisation, and greater global visibility. We are particularly proud that the change in the organisational model, aimed at leveraging television rights and amplifying the event’s media reach, is taking shape with the Italian edition. This is a significant added value that places Italy at the centre of the international stage, within one of the most fascinating and coveted competitions in the world”.
Following on from Minister Abodi, the new President of the Campania Region, Roberto Fico who was unable to attend the ceremony in Naples due to a prior commitment, welcomed delegates with a letter read out that stated: “Hosting the Louis Vuitton 38th America’s Cup is a great honour for the Campania Region and its citizens. The eyes of the whole world will be focused on the magnificent Gulf of Naples and the beauty of our region. Campania is a land of culture, sport and hospitality. It boasts breathtaking views and an important sailing tradition. As institutions, we are ready to support the ‘Road to Naples’ with responsibility and pride”.
Five teams have so far joined the new Partnership and will contest the Cup: Emirates Team New Zealand (NZL), GB1 (GBR), Luna Rossa (ITA), Tudor Team Alinghi (SUI) and K-Challenge (FRA). The ACP introduces a shared governance model aimed at strengthening commercial growth, media reach and long-term stability for the event.
Louis Vuitton CEO Pietro Beccari confirmed the brand’s continued commitment, underlining its historic role in the America’s Cup since 1983 and its support for a “more modern and inclusive era” of the competition. Italian institutional support was reinforced by the presence of the Minister for Sport and Youth Andrea Abodi, Naples Mayor Gaetano Manfredi, and Marco Mezzaroma, President of Sport e Salute, all highlighting the event’s strategic importance for sport, urban regeneration and Italy’s international profile.
Key dates were also confirmed: the America’s Cup Match will begin on Saturday 10 July 2027, with two opening races, and conclude over the weekend of 17-18 July 2027, as announced by Grant Dalton, CEO of Emirates Team New Zealand. Naples, hosting the America’s Cup for the first time, will provide the backdrop with the Gulf of Naples widely regarded as one of the world’s premier sailing venues.
The presentation concluded with a cultural welcome from Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, representing the Defender, reinforcing the heritage and future vision of the America’s Cup as it heads toward what promises to be one of the most anticipated editions in its 175-year history.
(Louis Vuitton and America’s Cup: a new era begins in Naples – Barchemagazine.com – January 2026)
