One of the most iconic names in modern America’s Cup history has confirmed it will not return for the 38th edition of sailing’s most prestigious event. In a move that has surprised many across the sailing world, Alinghi Red Bull Racing announced they will be withdrawing from the next Cup cycle, citing unresolved concerns about the event’s direction and commercial viability.
In a statement, the Swiss syndicate revealed it had begun an “orderly wind-down” of its team operations, marking an unexpected end to a short-lived comeback.
“Despite all our efforts, we have not been able to find agreement with the Defender of the America’s Cup for the future of the event,” the team said.
“We would like to have seen more accountability, greater transparency and new opportunities to perform not only individually but as a group… It is with great disappointment that we have begun an orderly wind-down of Alinghi Red Bull Racing.”
A Storied Legacy Ends, for Now
Representing La Société Nautique de Genève (SNG), Alinghi etched its name into Cup history in 2003, toppling Team New Zealand 5-0 with a multinational crew including Kiwi legends Sir Russell Coutts and Brad Butterworth. They successfully defended the Auld Mug in 2007 in Valencia, marking the last edition of the America’s Cup to feature more than five challengers.
After a long hiatus and controversial legal battles — notably over the legitimacy of their chosen Challenger of Record in 2007 — Alinghi returned in 2024 for the first time since losing the Cup in 2010. They were one of two teams sailing the AC75 foiling monohull for the first time, putting them on the back foot against more seasoned teams.
Nonetheless, they advanced to the semifinals of the Louis Vuitton Cup challenger series in Barcelona, before being eliminated by INEOS Britannia.
Dalton: “Surprising News” Amid Active Protocol Talks
Speaking to Nautic Magazine, Grant Dalton, CEO of Emirates Team New Zealand and the America’s Cup Event, expressed his surprise at the decision:
“It is surprising to hear the news of Alinghi Red Bull Racing. Although it has been somewhat obvious for some time that they were struggling to recover from their lacklustre performance in Barcelona…”
Dalton acknowledged Alinghi’s participation in early protocol discussions for the next Cup cycle and noted that concessions had been made specifically at the team’s request — including relaxation of nationality rules and collaborative efforts on racing formats and broadcast strategies.
“We feel sympathy today for the dedicated team members that have now lost their jobs as a result of this,” Dalton added.
Uncertain Waters Ahead for the 38th America’s Cup
With the protocol for the 38th edition still in development, no official entries have been confirmed. Dalton is currently in Europe conducting meetings with potential host venues, with a location expected to be named by June 20, and the full protocol released ahead of that date.
Alinghi’s departure adds to the recent wave of turbulence surrounding the next campaign. Emirates Team New Zealand parted ways with long-time helmsman Peter Burling just last week, while INEOS Team Britannia’s CEO Sir Jim Ratcliffe cancelled plans for a new British challenge after internal disputes and delays derailed their timetable.
A Legacy That Shaped the Cup
Whether loved or loathed, Alinghi’s impact on the America’s Cup is undeniable. The Swiss syndicate introduced a new era of international competition and transformed the commercial expectations of the event. Their exit now raises questions about the direction and inclusivity of future Cups — and who will step in to fill the vacuum left by one of the sport’s most innovative teams.
As the dust settles, fans and insiders alike are left wondering: Could this really be the end for Alinghi in the America’s Cup — or just another reset before the next evolution?
