AC40
First Private Build Slot Confirmed
FIRST PRIVATE AC40 BUILD SLOT CONFIRMED
In a significant development for the AC40 circuit, the first private build slot for an AC40 has been secured, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of foiling monohull racing.
This pioneering sailing team, while choosing to remain anonymous for now, is set to become the first to privately own an AC40 yacht, leading the way in creating a new and exciting one design foiling class.
Inspired by exhilarating racing demonstrated at the recent America’s Cup Preliminary regattas in Spain and Saudi Arabia, the team look forward to the thrill of high-speed sailing. The team has also ordered an AC40 sailing simulator, signalling their commitment to developing their skills ahead of the boat’s arrival.
“For us, the easy logistics coupled with the incredible racing we have seen in Jeddah – often doing more than three times the wind speed – made this a simple decision.” Private AC40 Owner
AC40 RACING CIRCUIT TAKES SHAPE
A new one-design AC40 racing class is set to redefine the landscape of competitive sailing. The first season in 2025 will see five events spanning the Mediterranean and the United States, with four America’s Cup teams intending to participate alongside private teams. With a minimum of six boats expected on the start line, the stage is set for some thrilling action on the water.
As part of the AC40 race circuit, all teams will benefit from a centralised boat service team to reduce operational costs and provide immediate access to expert assistance. Wind limits and crew quotas will also be in place to ensure safe and fair racing.
“The objective with the AC40 Class Association is to maximise the incredible opportunity that has been presented to the private owners’ racing sector, in the shape of the AC40 yacht. Never before have such passionate, competitive, thrill-seeking owners been able to purchase a yacht of this nature. With the AC40 Class Association now established,the future is incredibly exciting.” Sam Pearson, Ancasta Race Boats
This incredible milestone is a testament to the collaborative efforts of Emirates Team New Zealand, McConaghy Boats, Luca Rizzotti, and Ancasta Race Boats.
UNICREDIT YOUTH & PUIG WOMEN’S AMERICA’S CUP
After proving their might as America’s Cup training vessels and being the designated class for the preliminary regattas last year, the spectacular foiling AC40s will be raced by teams competing in the UniCredit Youth and inaugural Puig Women’s America’s Cup in September 2024.
The UniCredit Youth and Puig Women’s America’s Cup competitions are poised to be standout features of the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup in Barcelona. Attracting the finest youth and female foiling sailors from around the globe, twelve teams will make history as they strive for victory in intense fleet and head-to-head match racing at these groundbreaking events.
Racing under strict one-design configuration, these remarkable foiling monohulls represent the cutting edge of sailing technology, boasting exhilarating speeds that can surpass 50 knots. Standardised controls, sails, foils, and mechanisms ensure a level playing field, placing the spotlight on crew coordination, strategic maneuvering, and foiling technique.
