Preliminary Regattas Kick Off in Cagliari for 38th Coupe de l’America

The opening preliminary regattas of the 38th Coupe de l’America began in Cagliari, Sardinia, on Friday and will run through Sunday. The event marks the first stage of the competition for this year.

All races are contested on AC40 yachts, a class that features a reduced crew compared with traditional America's Cup boats. The smaller crew size emphasizes speed and coordination.

The preliminary series uses a fleet racing format, with multiple boats competing simultaneously. The format will change for the final, which will follow a different race structure.

Quentin Delapierre leads one of the participating teams, facing its first head‑to‑head challenges in the series. His crew will test their tactics against the other entrants during the three‑day window.

The regattas provide teams with valuable data on boat performance and local conditions ahead of the later stages of the Coupe de l’America. Sailors will adapt their strategies based on the outcomes.

The competition will continue beyond Sardinia, with the next venues to be confirmed as the series progresses toward the final race. Observers will watch how the early results shape the championship race.