What a journey it’s been! The 2024 America’s Cup brought all the drama, excitement, and record-breaking action we could have hoped for, and it ended in style with Emirates Team New Zealand taking home the trophy once again. The Kiwis have now cemented their status as one of the most dominant teams in America’s Cup history, and this year, they faced some seriously tough competition to keep their crown.
The competition kicked off with a series of intense races in the Louis Vuitton Cup, where the challengers battled it out for the chance to face New Zealand. The two standout teams, INEOS Britannia from the UK and Italy's Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli, pushed their boats and crews to the limit. After an exhilarating and nail-biting Louis Vuitton Cup final, INEOS Britannia came out on top, earning the right to challenge Emirates Team New Zealand in the main event.
When the America’s Cup match began, it was clear that both teams were ready for a showdown. INEOS Britannia, fresh off their victory in the Louis Vuitton Cup, had the speed and skill to pose a real threat to the Kiwis. However, Emirates Team New Zealand’s experience and strategy proved to be the deciding factor. In a series of thrilling races, New Zealand edged out the Brits, successfully defending their title and reminding everyone why they are the reigning champions.
A Brief Recap of America’s Cup History
The America’s Cup is one of the oldest and most prestigious trophies in international sport, dating back to 1851. Named after the schooner America, which won the first race around the Isle of Wight, this competition has evolved into the pinnacle of yacht racing. Over the years, the event has seen technological advancements and fierce rivalries between some of the most skilled sailing teams in the world.
The unique format sees the defending champion automatically qualify for the final, while challengers battle it out in preliminary rounds to earn the right to compete. Emirates Team New Zealand, the defending champions from the 2021 America’s Cup, were once again victorious in 2024, cementing their legendary status.
Some Facts About America’s Cup 2024
- Record Speeds: During this year’s competition, INEOS Britannia set a new speed record for an America’s Cup boat, reaching an incredible 55.6 knots during one of the Louis Vuitton Cup races
![Close-up of the British racing sailboat gliding above water, with crew visible and cityscape in the background]()
Source: facebook.com/AmericasCup - Host City – Barcelona: For the first time, the 2024 America’s Cup was held in Barcelona, Spain, adding a fresh and vibrant backdrop to the long-standing competition. The fan zones along Port Vell provided spectacular views of the racecourse, making it one of the most accessible and fan-friendly events in recent memory.
![Large crowd gathered near beach with palm trees and event booths in the background]()
Source: facebook.com/AmericasCup - Cutting-Edge Technology: This year’s competition saw teams racing in AC75 yachts, which are known for their cutting-edge foiling technology. These boats can sail up to four times faster than the wind, making them some of the fastest sailing vessels in the world
![Foiling sailboat gliding above water near city buildings in the background.]()
Source: facebook.com/AmericasCup - Close Calls: The Louis Vuitton Cup, which determined the challenger to face Emirates Team New Zealand, was a nail-biting contest between INEOS Britannia and Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli. The two teams were neck-and-neck throughout, with both hitting top speeds and overcoming challenging conditions
![two americas cup yachts nearly coliding]()
Source: facebook.com/AmericasCup - The Youth and Women’s America’s Cup: In addition to the main event, this year also featured the UniCredit Youth and Puig Women's America’s Cup events, showcasing emerging talent and promoting gender equality in the sport.
The 2024 America’s Cup had everything—speed, suspense, and some of the best sailing we’ve ever seen. Emirates Team New Zealand’s victory is another chapter in their storied legacy, and with new records set and fresh talent emerging, the future of the America’s Cup looks brighter than ever. Stay tuned, because this legendary race is only getting faster and more exciting!