Napoli has officially kicked off preparations for the 38th America’s Cup preliminary regatta cycle, opening the event with ceremonies at Nisida and a countdown installation in Piazza Vittoria, according to local reports from the event’s opening night. Mayor Gaetano Manfredi and Sports Minister Andrea Abodi opened the official proceedings alongside regional governor Roberto Fico, Sport e Salute president Marco Mezzaroma, and America’s Cup Partnership CEO Marzio Perrelli.
Opening Ceremonies and Institutional Addresses at Nisida
The preliminary week opened on the terrace of the Nisida Juvenile Penal Institute, overlooking the Gulf of Naples and the former Italsider industrial site at Bagnoli, according to event organizers. The evening featured musical performances, including Edoardo Bennato singing ‘L’isola che non c’è’ and tenor Gaetano Amore alongside soprano Irene Scarpato performing ‘O Sole mio’. Institutional leaders outlined the broader urban legacy expected from hosting the competition. Minister Abodi stated that the goal is to make this edition extraordinary enough to merit bidding for the 39th edition as well, according to official remarks from the stage.
The Countdown Clock and Public Venues in Piazza Vittoria
A large countdown clock in Piazza Vittoria was unveiled to track the remaining days, hours, and minutes until the first competitive test, leading up to the Louis Vuitton Cup starting on May 22 and the final match race on July 10, according to local officials. Diego Nepi Molineris, CEO of Sport e Salute—the implementing body appointed by the Italian government—described the clock installation as two intersecting sails mid-turn, symbolizing a second chance for the regeneration of Bagnoli and the youth of Nisida. The upcoming event features AC40 foiling monotypes racing across the Gulf, with free public access villages set up between Rotonda Diaz and via Francesco Caracciolo, featuring big screens and sailor meet-and-greets, according to sports reports.
Team Preparations and Historical Ties to the Gulf
Defending champion Emirates Team New Zealand is led by skipper Nathan Outteridge, an Olympic champion who ties his early America’s Cup experience back to the 2012 World Series held in the same waters, according to regional sports coverage. Outteridge noted the welcoming atmosphere and the complex tactical nature of the Neapolitan racecourse, while emphasizing the extensive preparation and analytical work conducted behind the scenes by the syndicates. Meanwhile, musician Edoardo Bennato—who grew up in Bagnoli as the son of an Italsider worker—announced a performance for the young residents of Nisida and revealed an official event anthem inspired by his brother Eugenio’s verses, bridging local industrial heritage with the city’s modern sailing revival.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the main America’s Cup match race take place?
The final match race is scheduled to begin on July 10, following the Louis Vuitton Cup starting on May 22.
Where are the public viewing areas located?
A public village with maxischermi and fan zones is established between Rotonda Diaz and via Francesco Caracciolo, offering free access for spectators.
What boats are used in the preliminary events?
The preliminary events utilize AC40 monotipo class yachts, where crew performance and tactical decisions dictate outcomes.
Who is leading the defending team?
Olympic champion Nathan Outteridge serves as the skipper guiding Emirates Team New Zealand.
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