During the racing for the 37th America’s Cup, expect to see the fabulous AC75s limping along, off the foils and struggling in light winds. It is hard to watch and has been one of the focal points as teams prepare for the upcoming races.

“One of the biggest concerns in this Cup is when we have to race at the very bottom end of the range of the wind limit,” explained Tom Burnham, Team Coach for NYYC American Magic. “There’s going to be times where we start a race just above the wind limit and might have to finish a race below the wind limit. Anytime we get a chance to sail just on that crossover between the 5 knots and 6-7 knots of wind is really valuable.”

The approximate average wind speed must be at least 6.5 knots to start a race, and if unable to keep the boat flying when it dips below that, perfecting the yacht’s design and crew technique to initiate liftoff is vital.

“I think we’re in a good spot,” added Burnham. “I mean you’d never say that we’re ahead of our plans, that’s always a risky thing to say, but in terms of where we are, I think we’re pretty comfortable.”

Following the publication of the AC37 Protocol and AC75 Class Rule on November 17, 2021, the AC75 Class Rule and AC Technical Regulations were finalized on March 17, 2022. The entry period was from December 1, 2021 until July 31, 2022, but late entries for the 37th America’s Cup could be accepted until May 31, 2023. The Defender was to announce the Match Venue on September 17, 2021 but postponed the reveal, finally confirming Barcelona on March 30, 2022. The 37th America’s Cup begins October 12, 2024.

Teams revealed to challenge defender Emirates Team New Zealand (NZL):
• INEOS Britannia (GBR)
• Alinghi Red Bull Racing (SUI)
• Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli Team (ITA)
• NYYC American Magic (USA)
• Orient Express Racing Team (FRA)

2023-24 Preliminary Regattas
September 14-17, 2023 (AC40): Vilanova i la Geltrú, Spain
November 30-December 2 (AC40): Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
August 22-25, 2024 (AC75): Barcelona, Spain

2024 Challenger Selection Series
August 29-September 8: Double Round Robin
September 14-19: Semi Finals (Best of 9)
September 26-October 7: Finals (Best of 13)

2024 America’s Cup
October 12-21: 37th Match (Best of 13)

Additionally, 12 teams will compete in the 2024 Youth & Women’s America’s Cup.

Noticeboard: https://ac37noticeboard.acofficials.org/
Event details: www.americascup.com/en/home

Source: scuttlebutt – https://www.sailingscuttlebutt.com/2024/07/01/americas-cup-not-flying-is-crying/