American Magic have confirmed they will return to challenge Emirates Team NZ for the America's Cup, representing the New York Yacht Club.
Skippered by Terry Hutchinson and helmed by Kiwi Dean Barker, the US team provided early drama during the 2021 challenger series off Auckland, crashing in squally conditions on the Hauraki Gulf and never really firing a shot thereafter, swept 4-0 by Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli in the semi-finals.
Their valiant effort to return to the water captured the hearts of sailing fans - both hardcore and casual - and they are determined to make up for the disappointment of that blown opportunity.
"We intend to compete in AC37, and are hungry and highly motivated to be the most innovative team, on and off the water," says American Magic principal Hap Fauth.
"We are proud of how our team rebounded during AC36, but we have unfinished business, and are committed to investing in technology, design, innovation and talent, so we are best positioned to bring the America's Cup home."
As America's Cup founder, New York Yacht Club enjoyed the longest winning streak in world sport, successfully defending the trophy from 1870, until it was lifted by Royal Perth Yacht Club in 1983.
"As the longest-standing trustee of the America's Cup and as our valued partner during the 36th America's Cup, we are pleased to represent the NYYC once again in our quest to bring back the Cup to its original champion," says American Magic principal Doug DeVos.
"We enjoyed a successful relationship during AC36 and coming out of that competition, we reflected, assessed options and determined that American Magic's vision to be an ongoing competitor in the America's Cup would benefit from partnering with the NYYC."
American Magic are the fourth challengers confirmed for 2024 at a venue yet to be confirmed. Ineos Britannia are the Challenger of Record, with Luna Rossa of Italy and Alinghi of Switzerland also throwing their hats in the ring.
Last May, the Americans attempted to lodge an early challenge, but were rebuffed as "presumptuous" by Team NZ and Britannia.
