Riptide Racing, in partnership with the historic Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht Club, has officially announced its ambitious challenge for the 38th America’s Cup in 2027.
After careful discussions with supporters, investors, and partners, the team is confident it can meet the Late Entry Deadline of January 31, 2026. While the America’s Cup represents one of the most demanding competitions in sailing, Riptide Racing has been in close consultation with America’s Cup organizers regarding the Protocol, partnership structures, and entry requirements, confirming that the current rules make this challenge achievable.
A Winning Formula on the Water
The campaign aims to assemble a high-performance team led by World #1 Match Race skipper Chris Poole, and to develop cutting-edge technologies and strategies that position the team at the top level of competition.
“To compete in the America’s Cup has always been a dream and my goal when we created Riptide Racing,” says Chris Poole, CEO & Skipper. “Our focus is to bring our winning formula to the pinnacle of yacht racing. With the possible absence of an American team in the next Cup, there’s a unique opportunity for new American sailors like us to continue the campaign and bring the Auld Mug back to the United States.”
Strategic Approach to Competition
Riptide Racing plans to acquire an existing AC75 package and supporting assets from a previous America’s Cup team. This strategy provides immediate access to proven design, infrastructure, and operational data, allowing the team to compete at a high level from the start.
To support this effort, the team has set a fundraising goal of $50 million, reinforced by the American Sailboat Racing Foundation, a 501(c)(3) partner that has supported Riptide Racing in past campaigns.
A Historic Club Returns to the Cup Spotlight
The Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht Club, established in 1871, has a rich tradition in America’s Cup sailing. While more than a century has passed since the club’s name was associated with the “Seawanhaka Rule” (1893–1903), Commodore Julian Fisher affirms:
“We are excited to support Chris Poole and Riptide Racing. The team has dominated match racing for the past four years, and the America’s Cup remains a match race at its core. The Club will do everything possible to ensure this challenge reaches the starting line by the January 31, 2026 deadline.”
Next Steps
Riptide Racing will release further details about the team, partners, and technological developments in the coming weeks. The immediate focus remains on securing funding through corporate and individual support to move forward with the campaign.
Founded in 2012 and based in Oyster Bay, NY, Riptide Racing has built a legacy of historic performances on the World Match Racing Tour. Now, the team is ready to take the next bold step: the 38th America’s Cup.
