Among the most intriguing rumors is the potential return of Artemis Racing, the Swedish team led by Torbjörn Törnqvist, a prominent figure in the world of commodities as CEO of Gunvor. This potential return would mark a significant chapter in the modern history of the America’s Cup, with Artemis Racing having been a formidable competitor since their debut in the Louis Vuitton Trophy in 2009.
Artemis Racing, associated with the Russian oligarch Gennady Timchenko—a figure sanctioned by the United States and the United Kingdom due to his connections with Vladimir Putin—has been a key player in various America’s Cup campaigns. Their journey includes participation in the AC World Series in 2011-2012 and a dramatic appearance in the 2013 America’s Cup with the AC72, an event tragically overshadowed by the death of crew member Andrew Bart Simpson during training. In 2017, Artemis Racing competed in Bermuda for the 35th America’s Cup with the AC50, reaching the Louis Vuitton Cup final, only to be defeated by Emirates Team New Zealand.
Now, with the return of Artemis Racing seemingly imminent, the sailing world is abuzz with speculation. However, the exact timing of their comeback remains uncertain, as the date of the 38th edition of the America’s Cup is yet to be confirmed. What is more assured is the type of boat that will be used—the AC75, albeit in an evolved form from the current models.
In a significant twist, all competing teams have agreed to a clause in the Protocol that binds the winner of the 37th America’s Cup to continue with the AC75 class. Should the victorious team choose to change the boat class, they would be required to pay a staggering $20 million to each of the other teams—a “millionaire tax” that could deter even the wealthiest competitors from altering the course of the competition.
With Artemis Racing’s potential return on the horizon and the stakes higher than ever, the future of the America’s Cup promises to be as thrilling and unpredictable as ever.
