• Media ID-25990

    INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY

    The America’s Cup stands at the forefront of technological advancement and engineering excellence in competitive sailing, embodying a dynamic fusion of sport and innovation. Yacht development is an interdisciplinary collaboration, drawing on partnerships with engineering powerhouses, including Formula 1TM teams, to pioneer advancements in material sciences, aerodynamics, and hydrodynamics. Sailing teams reflect this diversity, blending expertise not only from the world’s best sailors but also from disciplines such as cycling, rowing, and other sports, creating an environment where varied skill sets converge to achieve excellence.

    These innovations have far-reaching impacts extending beyond the competition. Hydrogen-powered boats, developed through America's Cup research, are leading advancements in sustainable maritime technology, and novel analysis and visualisation tools help to understand weather and wind patterns at never-before-seen resolution. Additionally, the widespread adoption of simulators—originally designed for elite athlete training—now offers non-professionals a chance to experience the thrill of sailing first-hand.

    The America’s Cup is more than a race; it is a platform for groundbreaking innovation with the potential to inspire global audiences across industries, sports interests, and generations. The America’s Cup showcases the intersection of sport and science, proving that excellence on water starts with innovation on land.

  • Media ID-25988

    THE BOATS
    AC75: A FLYING MONOHULL

    The AC75 showcases innovation that redefines sailing for the modern era and represents a leap in sailing technology. Equipped with hydrofoils, the yachts achieve incredible speeds by lifting the hull above the water, minimising drag. Power generation has been revolutionised with ‘cyclors’, who pedal instead of grind, providing enhanced efficiency and optimised crew numbers. Advanced battery systems store and distribute this power. A network of sensors delivers real-time data for optimal performance, while groundbreaking sail designs maximise aerodynamics.

  • Media ID-24821

    THE TEAMS
    CHASING SAILING’S PINNACLE

    The America’s Cup teams embody interdisciplinary collaboration, uniting expertise on and off the water.

    Engineers, software specialists, boat builders, and many other experts innovate with marine, aeronautic, and emerging technologies to push boundaries in yacht design. Teams on the water feature athletes from diverse sports—from sailing to rowing or cycling—working harmoniously to optimise performance. These crews also pave pathways for women and youth sailors, fostering inclusivity and fresh talent in competitive sailing.

    Together, they redefine what’s possible in sports and engineering.

DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT
PUSHING BOUNDARIES AND CONVENTIONS

  • FOILS & WINGS

    The introduction of hydrofoils revolutionised the sport, enabling boats to lift above the water, reducing drag, and achieving speeds exceeding 50 knots. With the help of cutting-edge sail designs and the application of novel material technologies, sailing has been redefined beyond anything that could have been conceived at the competition’s inception in 1851.

    The plethora of real-time data provides experts with feedback and input as well as opportunities for immersive broadcasting technologies bringing fans closer to the action than ever.

  • SIMULATORS

    On-shore training is just as important as on-water practice. Cutting-edge simulators emulate the real-life experience and allow the teams to train in controlled, simulated conditions. The innovations and technologies also lead to the inclusion of non-pro athletes and spin-offs such as the America's Cup e-Series.

    Additionally, visitors and spectators are also getting a feel for the thrilling on-water action by experiencing the simulators themselves.

  • SPEED RECORDS

    During the 37th America’s Cup, the recorded top speed was achieved by INEOS Britannia during Race 8 on Race Day 5 of the Louis Vuitton Cup Final. The boat reached a record speed of 55.6 knots (102.97 km/h).

    Similarly, the AC40s have demonstrated exhilarating performances too: With top speeds reaching around 45 knots during the regattas in lower wind conditions and a measured top speed of 50.09 knots (92.77 km/h) in training.

  • Media ID-25936

    THE HYDROGEN BOATS
    FUELLING THE FUTURE

    The America’s Cup chase boats are powered by hydrogen, with Emirates Team New Zealand leading the way in this groundbreaking innovation.

    The vessel, named ’Chase Zero’, runs on two 80kW Toyota hydrogen fuel cells—one in each hull—which supply most of the boat's energy needs. The hydrogen (H₂) molecules are processed through a catalyst to fuel the engines, leaving behind H⁺ ions. These ions then bond with oxygen from the surrounding air, producing nothing but pure water (H₂O) as the sole emission.

    An additional battery provides supplementary power during fast changes and high demands, such as when the boat reaches speeds exceeding 50 knots. When excess power is available again, the hydrogen fuel cells recharge the batteries, ensuring efficient energy management.

  • Media ID-25913

    TECHNOLOGY AND BROADCAST
    VISUALISING THE UNSEEN

    America’s Cup Media delivered the most accessible event in the more than 170-year history of the regatta. Breakthrough broadcasting and visualisation technologies open up the event’s complexities, making it engaging for all audiences. These emerging technologies enhance the overall viewing experience for both viewers with various backgrounds and sailing experts.

    One such innovation is WindSight IQ™, which uses LiDAR (light detection and ranging) sensor fusion and advanced computation to visualise wind patterns in augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) graphics. Additionally, VirtualEye offers data-driven replays of each race, allowing fans and media to analyse and relive the regatta's key moments.