Barcelona is gearing up for a potentially lucrative event as the America’s Cup regatta is set to bring in a big payday for the region. This comes as a stark contrast to New Zealand’s experience in 2021, where hosting the event left the country worse off economically.
According to a report commissioned by the Universitat Pompeu Fabra in May 2023, Barcelona is expected to see a positive economic impact of €1.2 billion from hosting the America’s Cup. In comparison, New Zealand faced a $2.9 million deficit after hosting the 36th America’s Cup.
The road to the 37th America’s Cup has been marked by various developments, including the finalization of the AC75 Class Rule and AC Technical Regulations in March 2022. Teams from around the world are gearing up to challenge the defending champions, Emirates Team New Zealand, in the upcoming event.
Among the teams set to compete are INEOS Britannia from Great Britain, Alinghi Red Bull Racing from Switzerland, Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli Team from Italy, NYYC American Magic from the USA, and Orient Express Racing Team from France. Preliminary regattas have been scheduled in Spain and Saudi Arabia, leading up to the main event in Barcelona in October 2024.
The Challenger Selection Series will see teams competing in a series of rounds, culminating in the finals in October. In addition, the 2024 Youth & Women’s America’s Cup will feature 12 teams vying for victory in their own competition.
For more information and updates on the America’s Cup event, you can visit the official website at www.americascup.com/en/home. Stay tuned for an exciting and action-packed event as Barcelona prepares to host the prestigious America’s Cup regatta.