American Magic has confirmed it will not compete in the next edition of the America’s Cup.
The American sailing team says the decision follows a comprehensive review of the event’s current Protocol and Partnership Agreement and its alignment with the team’s long-term sporting and strategic objectives.
This will be the first time in the Cup’s 175-year history that an American team has not taken part.
“After extensive engagement with the Defender, Challenger of Record, and fellow teams, we’ve concluded that the present structure does not provide the framework for American Magic to operate a highly competitive and financially sustainable campaign for the 38th America’s Cup,” explained Doug DeVos, team principal of American Magic.
“We care deeply about the America’s Cup and what it represents. However, for a team committed to long-term excellence, alignment around financial viability and competitive performance is essential.
“At this time, we don’t believe those conditions are in place for American Magic to challenge.”
We care deeply about the America’s Cup and what it represents.
Doug DeVos
In a statement, the team said it remains fully committed to its founding purpose: building a high-performance American sailing platform that competes and wins on the global stage.
“Our focus now shifts to the future,” explained Mike Cazer, CEO of American Magic.
“That means athlete and technology development, international competition, and continuing to drive advanced manufacturing and design innovation from our base in Pensacola.”
American Magic has represented the New York Yacht Club in two America’s Cup campaigns since it was founded in 2017.
Elite American sailors
The team supports elite American sailors across senior, youth, and women’s disciplines.
The team says it will continue to invest in the sport through its Pensacola-based high-performance centre and international racing campaigns, including programmes that support US Olympic sailors.
“To our teammates, partners, donors, and supporters — thank you for standing with us,” concluded Terry Hutchinson, president of sailing operations.
“We could never have accomplished what we have without you. You are a vital part of who we are.”
The 38th America’s Cup will take place in Naples, Italy, in 2027.
