American Magic back in the Cup

In a surprising twist, the New York Yacht Club has announced that it intends to take part in the next America’s Cup, represented once again by American Magic.

This is something of a U-turn: in June 2021 the New York YC announced that it would return for the 37th America’s Cup, but would be represented by the Stars & Stripes team (a rival American challenge which failed to get off the ground for AC36). Then in October, the club announced that it was ‘pausing our pursuit of the 37th America’s Cup’ and would not compete.

New York YC was represented by American Magic in the 36th America’s Cup in New Zealand. Their AC75 Patriot was widely tipped to be among the fastest until a devastating crash landing caused severe damage to the yacht. Although the AC75 was repaired and returned to racing, the American challengers were first to be eliminated.

“We intend to compete in AC37 and are hungry and highly motivated to be the most innovative team on and off the water,” remarked Hap Fauth, principal for American Magic.

“We are proud of how our team rebounded during AC36, but we have unfinished business and are committed to investing in technology, design, innovation, and talent so we are best positioned to bring the America’s Cup home!”

No crew positions have yet been announced, although British Olympic Gold Medallist and American Magic wing trimmer Paul Goodison has been widely tipped to take a leading role.

This latest announcement brings the number of confirmed challenging teams to four: joining Challengers of Record INEOS Britannia, Alinghi Red Bull Racing and Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli.