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RNZ News
4 days ago
- Business
- RNZ News
Big changes for future of America's Cup in new protocol
Team New Zealand feels a "responsibility" to grow the America's Cup. Photo: AFP / Manaure Quintero Equal stakes for each team, a cost cap, more regular racing, and more women and influencers on board a battery-powered AC75 are all part of the protocol for the 38th America's Cup which will be held in Naples in mid-2027. The defender of the America's Cup, The Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, represented by Team New Zealand, and the Challenger of Record, The Royal Yacht Squadron Ltd, represented by Athena Racing, have signed the protocol for the next America's Cup after what has been described as "a complex endeavour that has required a huge amount of collaboration and goodwill from all parties", according to RYS Ltd's Bertie Bicket. "We have worked closely over the past nine months to bring about this paradigm shift to the future structure of the America's Cup." Called the "boldest change in 174 years of the Cup" central to the new Protocol is a partnership agreement that establishes equal governance for all participating teams through the America's Cup Partnership (ACP). ACP will be responsible for organising and managing the event's on and off-water format and will oversee the development, protection and commercialisation of media and commercial rights. Athena Racing chief executive and team principal Sir Ben Ainslie said it was "a seismic moment" for the America's Cup. "The Partnership Agreement fundamentally reshapes the governance and organisation of the event. The teams and yacht clubs share a vision to make the America's Cup more inclusive, compelling, and financially sustainable. This new model marks a unified commitment to that vision." As part of the change, the America's Cup can establish more predictable scheduling, with the cup intended to become a bi-annual event. NYYC commodore Jay Cross said as the founding trustee of the America's Cup, "we are completely supportive of the move to modernise the oldest sporting trophy in the world". Team New Zealand chief executive Grant Dalton said as the three-time successive winner of the America's Cup, "we feel the responsibility to continue to drive the growth of the America's Cup event". "Although the America's Cup is the oldest trophy in international sport and the pinnacle of sailing, its Achilles' heel has always been its lack of continuity, so this transformation now gives all teams collective stewardship, and we are introducing a new executive management team to be headed up by a new independent CEO. "This is the boldest change in 174 years of the Cup, while respecting the Deed of Gift, along with the Challenger of Record we are confident this is the best initiative to grow what is already one of the greatest sporting events in the world." Entries open for the 38th America's Cup on 19 August. The future focused protocol also includes developments aimed at increasing inclusivity, national representation, and cost efficiency whilst ensuring the America's Cup stays at the pinnacle of design and development in sport. The 38th America's Cup will see a progression of the 37th America's Cup, with a priority to continuing to build pathways for Women and Youth, by maintaining the women's and Yyouth America's Cup events, but also now including at least one female crew member onboard the AC75. The crew of the AC75s will consist of five sailors, with increased function of the boat powered by battery. The nationality clause requires that two sailors plus the female sailor must be a national of the country of the competitor but will allow up to two non-nationals to sail onboard as well. Racing format revitalised to keep all teams racing for longer and maximising race time with the Louis Vuitton Cup group stage comprising of match racing as well as fleet racing to include all competitors. The results of which will determine the top 4 challengers that will race in a knockout match race Semi-Final (first to 5 wins) and Final (first to 7 wins) series to determine who the Challenger will be to race the defender Team New Zealand in the Louis Vuitton 38th America's Cup Match in the month of July 2027 in Naples. A series of up to three Preliminary Regattas are intended for 2026 and one in early 2027 to be raced in the AC40s with teams entitled to race two AC40 yachts each at each event, with one AC40 to be crewed by women and youth sailors. A final Preliminary Regatta will be raced in Naples in the AC75s immediately prior to the commencement of the Louis Vuitton Cup Challenger Selection Series. In a significant move of cost containment for all teams, a cost cap of €75m for the teams will be imposed for AC38 with refinements scheduled for AC39. Furthermore, the protocol stipulates that all existing teams will use the same AC75 hulls that were raced in the 37th America's Cup if available. New teams will only be permitted to acquire an existing AC75 or build a new hull to the design of an AC37 hull. All hulls must satisfy the specific Constructed in Country requirements as outlined in the protocol in accordance with the Deed of Gift. In a move to maximise commercial, media, and fan engagement, the teams will carry one guest racer onboard their AC75 during races. VIPs, sponsors, media, influencers and dignitaries will get to experience first-hand and report exactly what it is like to race onboard the most technological boats in the world, going head-tohead in the heat of battle. RNZYS commodore David Blakey said they had been "integral in the process with Team New Zealand, and the Challenger of Record, in carving this new path for the America's Cup". "Promoting pathways for young sailors and developing the sport in New Zealand is a top priority for RNZYS, which this protocol and partnership delivers on. We are immensely proud of our national team's performance on the world stage and Team New Zealand winning the America's Cup represents the very best of New Zealand's innovation, technology and culture." Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero , a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Final-race drama and clear skies wrap up Cowes Week in style
Cowes Week 2025 concluded in classic style on Friday (August 9) with spinnakers flying downwind and sunshine welcoming fleets across the Royal Yacht Squadron finish line. The week delivered a full range of conditions – from gusty winds and choppy seas to flat calms – testing the skills and adaptability of competitors across all classes. The final day began calmly but soon saw steady breezes, enabling all classes to get away cleanly. Among the early finishers was the H Boat Weerga, skippered by Ali and Jochem Visser, claiming her second win. Recommended reading: Choppy Solent challenge for Cowes Week competitors on penultimate race day Diverse mix of entries plus youth sailing for Cowes Week Day 5 Day 4 of Cowes Week was all about wind, winners and women Wight Wedding followed closely, securing the overall IRC7 title, while Final Warning took second. Consistency proved crucial throughout the week. The overall Cowes Week winner was the XOD Astralita, helmed by John Tremlett, with five wins and a second. In Black Group, Sam Laidlaw's BLT dominated IRC6 with an unbroken string of victories, showcasing the benefits of long-standing crew cohesion. In the larger boats, the TP52 Braveheart edged out Van Uden-Rost 3 in IRC Zero. Among the Cape 31s, Bullit sealed the title by winning the final race by just one second. In IRC1, Tokoloshe 4 posted a near-flawless scoreline, while Bedouin's Women's Day win earned helm Linda Goddard the Ariel Trophy. Tight competition defined several classes. In the Daring fleet, Dauntless edged out Doublet in a final-race showdown. The Sunbeam and IRC2 fleets also saw thrilling battles, with Sky and Leon emerging victorious after week-long duels. Other class standouts included Tigger in Sportsboats, Bluebottle in Dragons, and Sheen in Seaview Mermaids. The Contessa 32 class highlighted intergenerational sailing, with Drumbeat winning overall and Mary Rose Tudor's young crew earning the Musto Young Skipper's and Under 25 trophies. As the week wrapped with ceremonies at the Royal Yacht Squadron and Cowes Yacht Haven, attention turned to 2026 – Cowes Week's 200th anniversary. Organisers promise a spectacular celebration, with royal yachts, fireworks and potentially the return of the Red Arrows to mark two centuries of world-class sailing.
Sustainability Times
10-07-2025
- Automotive
- Sustainability Times
'Ferrari's Green Revolution Stuns the Seas': This Eco-Friendly Yacht Breaks Speed Barriers While Redefining Luxury for the Super-Rich
IN A NUTSHELL 🚤 Ferrari enters the yacht racing world with the Hypersail project, blending speed and sustainability . and . 🌊 The 100-foot yacht features foiling technology , allowing it to rise above water and reduce drag for enhanced performance. , allowing it to rise above water and reduce drag for enhanced performance. 🌞 Utilizing solar , wind , and kinetic energy , the yacht sets a new standard for eco-friendly marine travel. , , and , the yacht sets a new standard for eco-friendly marine travel. 🔍 Ferrari's innovation in yacht design could inspire a revolution in the luxury marine industry. In a bold move that extends its legacy beyond the asphalt, Ferrari is venturing into the uncharted waters of yacht racing. Known for its dominance on racetracks worldwide, the iconic automobile manufacturer is poised to revolutionize the maritime world with a groundbreaking yacht. This new project highlights Ferrari's commitment to innovation and sustainability, focusing on harnessing renewable energy sources to propel its latest creation. As the luxury brand sets its sights on high-speed marine adventures, enthusiasts and environmentalists alike are eagerly anticipating what this new chapter will bring. The Vision Behind the Hypersail Project The Hypersail project embodies Ferrari's ambition to blend speed with sustainability. Inspired by the automaker's success with hypercars in the 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race, the yacht is designed to soar above the waves. The project highlights Ferrari's strategic expansion into the marine industry, driven by a desire to apply automotive mastery to yacht design. This 100-foot racing monohull yacht is not just about speed; it represents a commitment to environmental stewardship. By utilizing solar, wind, and kinetic energy, the Hypersail aims to set a new standard for eco-friendly marine travel, reducing its carbon footprint while maintaining top-tier performance. Ferrari's venture into yacht racing is a testament to its innovative spirit and dedication to pushing boundaries. The Hypersail project is not merely a yacht; it's a symbol of the future of sustainable luxury travel. This initiative reflects a broader trend in the industry as luxury brands adapt to an eco-conscious market, proving that speed and sustainability can coexist harmoniously. 'China Unleashes Flying Bike': Futuristic Hoverbike Hits 44.7 MPH and Flies 31 Miles in Shocking Public Debut Revolutionizing Yacht Design with Foiling Technology The Hypersail project is at the cutting edge of yacht design, featuring foiling technology that allows the yacht to rise above the water on underwater wings, known as foils. This design dramatically reduces drag and increases speed, a concept borrowed from the successful 'AC75' boats used in America's Cup races. These foiling yachts can achieve speeds of up to 58 mph, showcasing a thrilling blend of engineering prowess and performance. Ferrari's adoption of this advanced technology signifies a leap forward in yacht design, merging the precision of automotive engineering with the challenges of marine dynamics. By implementing foiling technology, Ferrari aims to deliver an unparalleled sailing experience, combining high speed with agility and efficiency. This innovative approach not only enhances performance but also aligns with the eco-friendly ethos of the Hypersail project, offering a glimpse into the future of sustainable marine transport. As the yacht rises above the water, it exemplifies the perfect harmony between cutting-edge technology and environmental responsibility. Swiss Startup Stuns the World by Powering Trains With the First-Ever PV Solar Plant Built Directly on Active Railway Tracks Embracing Renewable Energy for a Greener Future At the heart of Ferrari's yacht venture is a commitment to environmental sustainability. The Hypersail is designed to run exclusively on renewable energy sources, including solar panels, wind turbines, and kinetic energy harvesting systems. This approach underscores Ferrari's dedication to reducing environmental impact while maintaining the high performance for which it is renowned. The integration of renewable energy technologies not only enhances the yacht's efficiency but also sets a precedent for future marine designs. By focusing on sustainable energy, Ferrari is taking a significant step towards a greener future, addressing growing environmental concerns and aligning with global efforts to combat climate change. The Hypersail project exemplifies how luxury brands can lead the way in innovation, setting new standards for eco-friendly design and engineering. This commitment to sustainability not only benefits the environment but also appeals to a new generation of consumers who prioritize ecological responsibility in their purchasing decisions. Japan Plans 310,000-Ton Crude Oil Giant: World's Biggest Methanol-Powered Ship Set to Revolutionize Global Energy Transport The Future of High-Speed Marine Adventures Ferrari's foray into the world of yacht racing represents a bold new direction for the brand, promising to redefine the future of high-speed marine adventures. With its focus on speed, sustainability, and cutting-edge technology, the Hypersail project is poised to make waves in the industry. This venture could inspire other luxury brands to explore similar innovations, driving a revolution in the marine sector. The Hypersail is more than just a yacht; it's a vision of what the future holds for marine transportation. As Ferrari continues to push the boundaries of design and performance, the question arises: How will this groundbreaking project influence the broader maritime industry, and what new innovations will it inspire in the quest for sustainable luxury travel? This article is based on verified sources and supported by editorial technologies. Did you like it? 4.6/5 (24)
Auto Blog
05-07-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Ferrari's Latest Racing Project Trades the Race Track for the Open Seas
By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. Some of the world's most prestigious racing does not take place on the road The pinnacle of all car-based motorsport, Formula One, is thought by many to be the most glamorous and cutthroat racing event in the entire world. Every year, billions of dollars are spent among ten unique teams for 20 of the most elite drivers to duke it out for glory on race tracks and street circuits all over the world. However, beyond the trappings of tarmac is another prestigious racing sport steeped in strict rules and tradition, where technology, guts, and grit go into creating a legacy built out of glory: sailing. Yes, sailing, like boats sailing. While Formula One may have its roots in European Grand Prix races dating back to the 1920s and 30s, the most prestigious international sailing competition, the infamous America's Cup, dates back 174 years to 1851, with just one racing team holding onto the title for 132 years in a row. Ferrari is hitting the High Seas In an announcement on June 25, Ferrari announced the Hypersail project, a new sailing initiative that blends Ferrari's racing heritage and automotive technological capabilities in an effort to revolutionize yacht racing. In collaboration with legendary Italian sailor Giovanni Soldini, Ferrari is building what it says will be the world's first 100-foot monohull ocean racing yacht with a foil-equipped keel. It's a major leap into uncharted waters for the brand, especially as this effort relies on a design meant to harness the power of the wind instead of a fire-spitting high-performance engine. Designed by famed French naval architect Guillaume Verdier, the boat is being built at a secret, undisclosed location in Italy and is slated to be revealed in 2026. The project brings Ferrari's flair for design, engineering, and speed into the world of offshore sailing, where its racing experience could be tested in a new way. 'It perfectly aligns with Ferrari's tradition, drawing inspiration from our Hypercar, three-time winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans,' Ferrari Chairman John Elkann said. 'Designing a yacht for offshore racing is perhaps the ultimate expression of endurance. Elkann: Ferrari isn't trying out for the America's Cup Given Ferrari's appetite for race wins and trophies, it would be hard not to assume that the world's most successful Formula One team would be using this program as a way to announce that it is pursuing a run at the Louis Vuitton Cup; the challenger's tournament that takes place prior to the America's Cup. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. However, it might not happen yet. Although the next edition of the America's Cup is headed to the southern Italian city of Naples in 2027, with the Emirates airline-backed New Zealand team gunning to defend its title, Ferrari says it is not planning to compete—at least not with this boat. Like Formula One, America's Cup teams have to follow a strict ruleset, and the boat Ferrari made would be in violation of the AC75 ruleset currently agreed to as of the previous America's Cup that took place last year. The current America's Cup boats are restricted to just 75 feet long, and feature no keel underneath the boat. '[The] America's Cup is regulated, and this boat is thought to go beyond rules,' Elkann said. 'This project gives us the chance to experiment in new areas.' Ferrari is dedicated to its watersports project Ferrari isn't saying what races this beast will compete in yet, but for now, the project aims to build the best boat possible. 'Before setting sport targets, we want to finish developing the boat and bring it to sea,' said Soldini. 'Then we'll see what we can and can't do.' Soldini, who's been racing across oceans for over 30 years, says the goal is to keep the crew size small, between eight and 12 people. Though they've set a launch window of 2026, he's not making promises about when. 'It's obvious that we have quite a defined [time] goal, but the project is so complex that making it public today doesn't seem very wise,' he said at a news conference at Ferrari's Maranello headquarters. 'There are a thousand things to put together. We'll definitely put the boat in the water in 2026, but I'm not making any commitments about what quarter.' Around 20 people work full-time on the Hypersail project, with another 80–90 supporting it. Ferrari says some of the boat's technology will carry over from the automotive side, especially since many of the personnel previously worked on the F80 supercar that was revealed in 2023. Final thoughts One of my favorite documentaries is called Untold: The Race of the Century. It's available on Netflix and it documents the successful challenge led by the Australia II team when they beat the New York Yacht Club for the first time during the 1983 America's Cup. That being said, it would be very interesting to see Ferrari enter the world of competitive sailing. With their kind of financial backing and engineering expertise, they could be a team as dominant as the New York Yacht Club if they ever consider competing in the America's Cup. The cup in itself takes place every three to four years, and it's as much a grueling challenge as the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Daytona, or the Nürburgring. We can only wait and see. About the Author James Ochoa View Profile
