American Racing Challenger Team USA, representing Challenging Yacht Club Sail Newport, has been confirmed as an official challenger for the Louis Vuitton 38th America’s Cup. The America’s Cup team, co-founded by Chris Welch and Karel Komárek, will be led by Ken Read, a two-time Rolex Yachtsman of the Year and winner of numerous sailing titles. Before the team’s confirmation, the 2027 edition was poised to be the first America’s Cup without a U.S. challenger. The regatta has long been shaped by U.S. dominance, beginning with its first victory in 1851 and its 132-year winning streak — the longest in sports history. American Racing Challenger Team USA and Sail Newport are also collaborating with US Sailing to strengthen pathways into the sport, with a focus on youth development and expanding opportunities for female sailors to build a more inclusive and accessible future for American sailing. “Having a strong representative team from the USA is something that we welcome, and in American Racing Challenger Team USA, they have an impressive management team that has already acquired the assets of American Magic,” said Marzio Perrelli, CEO of the America’s Cup Partnership. “This makes Sail Newport’s challenge a real contender, and we look forward to working with the team going forward.” The US team has acquired key America’s Cup sailing assets from American Magic, including the AC75 yacht Patriot and the team’s two AC40 platforms. “The America’s Cup represents the pinnacle of sailing innovation, performance, and international competition,” said Karel Komárek, team co-founder and chairman. “We are proud to bring an American contender back to the forefront of this historic event. This is a decision we have approached with great care and clear intent: we would only move forward with the right partners in place. Sail Newport’s pedigree, and its commitment not only to elite competition but also to the grassroots development of American sailing and expanding access to the sport, made it an inspiring partner.” Read added: “Having the opportunity to represent the United States once again in the America’s Cup is a tremendous honor. We’re under no illusion about the challenges ahead, and we’re fully focused on building a team that can win the Cup. We are looking forward to building a program that American sailors can be proud of and establishing a legacy that endures well into the future.” The competition will take place in the spring and summer of 2027 on Italy’s Bay of Naples, marking the first time the America’s Cup will be held in Italy. Check out Triton’s latest issue