America’s Cup returns to New York for first time since 1920

The America’s Cup is due to return to New York next May for the first time since 1920.

Taking place on 7^th and 8^th May 2016, the top sailors from around the world will take on some of the toughest sailing events, in order to gain points towards the final competition for the 35^th America’s Cup in 2017.

New York has historic ties with the Cup, having hosted the take-off point for 50 years, from 1870 to 1920. The competition was then moved to Newport, Rhode Island where it remained until 1983, when the United States lost the Cup and ended sport’s longest ever-winning streak. Since 1983, racing has taken place across the world for the America’s Cup, from Auckland to Valencia.

Jimmy Spithill, ORACE Team USA skipper said, “The New York event is going to be spectacular. Racing on the lower Hudson River, in front of that Manhattan skyline, will be a huge hit. New Yorkers are massive sports fans and I think this will be something very special: Thrilling, top-level racing right in the heart of the city. It’s going to be a great event for the America’s Cup and a great event for New York.”

2016 events will also take place in Muscat, Oman; Chicago, USA; and Portsmouth, UK. Harvey Schiller, commercial commissioner of the America’s Cup commented, “With six events around the world in 2016, our fans will have more opportunities to enjoy America’s Cup racing and follow their favourite teams and sailors, as we build towards the finals in Bermuda in 2017.”

“We’re excited to be able to add the new venues of Oman, New York and Chicago to the calendar, giving more fans a chance to experience the America’s Cup in person.”  

For more information, visit America's Cup.