French America’s Cup Team Unveils New Sponsor & Crew for 2027 Naples Challenge

France Sets Sail for Naples: K-Challenge Prepares for the 2027 America’s Cup

Lorient, France – The quest for sailing’s oldest trophy is intensifying as K-Challenge, the French entry for the 38th America’s Cup, unveils its team and preparations ahead of the competition in Naples, Italy, in 2027. The team, based in Lorient – a city renowned as a hub for competitive sailing innovation – is building momentum with a new sponsor and a revamped crew, aiming to make a significant impact on the international stage. The America’s Cup, a symbol of nautical excellence, draws global attention not only for its sporting spectacle but also for the cutting-edge technology and strategic prowess it demands. This competition, steeped in history, continues to evolve, presenting new challenges and opportunities for teams vying for the coveted title.

The 38th America’s Cup, scheduled to take place from July 10-18, 2027, in Naples, represents a significant undertaking for the French team. K-Challenge is currently focused on intensive training and development, utilizing the AC40, a foiling catamaran, as its primary training vessel. While the AC75, the high-performance boat designed specifically for the America’s Cup match, remains under wraps in a Lorient workshop undergoing meticulous preparation, the team is already demonstrating a commitment to innovation and precision. The selection of Naples as the host city, announced in 2024, promises a stunning backdrop for the races, with Mount Vesuvius and the Campanian coastline providing a dramatic setting for this prestigious event. K-Challenge’s official website provides further details on the team’s progress and the competition schedule.

A New Crew and a Renewed Focus

The newly assembled crew of “La Roche-Posay Racing Team” represents a blend of seasoned veterans and rising stars. Notable additions include Leigh MacMillan, a transfer from the United Kingdom and the dynamic Franco-Spanish duo of Diego Botin and Florian Trittel, who recently secured Olympic gold in the 49er class at the Paris 2024 Games. This infusion of talent underscores K-Challenge’s ambition to compete at the highest level. According to skipper Quentin Delapierre, “The America’s Cup attracts the attention of the world as it’s very complicated to win. You have to commit for the long term, create a very structured, very competent team.” Delapierre emphasizes a pragmatic approach, acknowledging France’s position as an underdog but expressing confidence in the team’s ability to build a strong foundation for future success.

The team’s preparations are bolstered by a new sponsorship from the cosmetic brand La Roche-Posay, providing crucial financial support for the ambitious campaign. Philippe Presti, a highly respected navigator with multiple world and European titles and a veteran of seven America’s Cup campaigns – including victories in 2010 and 2013 with Team America – has joined as the team’s new sporting director. Presti highlights the advantage of starting preparations well in advance, stating, “We are ready a year and a half before the competition. The last time, it was a month before. That’s a big difference.” He also emphasizes the strategic importance of Lorient as the team’s base, citing the proximity to other leading sailing teams and the wealth of expertise available in the region. “It’s here that all the teams we operate with are located. And nearby is offshore racing. There are a lot of interactions with everything we develop with the other teams in the ‘Ultim’ and ‘Imoca’ classes,” Presti explained.

Technological Innovation and the Evolution of the Cup

The America’s Cup is renowned for its relentless pursuit of technological advancement. The current regulations prioritize innovation in areas such as foils, electronic systems, and energy management. Teams are constantly pushing the boundaries of design and engineering to gain a competitive edge. The AC75 class, introduced in recent editions, represents a significant leap forward in yacht technology, with boats capable of reaching speeds exceeding 100 kilometers per hour. As Delapierre noted, “These boats reach 100 km/hour. It’s very impressive. You have to try to be on the limit every time.” The 2027 America’s Cup, as detailed on Wikipedia, will continue to showcase these technological marvels.

Beyond technological advancements, the America’s Cup is also evolving in terms of inclusivity. The current regulations mandate the inclusion of a female crew member on each team. Amélie Grasset has been selected to fill this role for K-Challenge, bringing a wealth of experience from the offshore racing world. Grasset acknowledges the unique challenges of transitioning to the high-speed world of foiling yachts, stating, “Even though I’m used to flying above the oceans, I understand it’s a completely different exercise.” Her inclusion reflects a broader commitment to diversity and gender equality within the sport.

The Challenger Series and the Road to the Match

The path to challenging Emirates Team New Zealand, the current defender of the America’s Cup, involves a rigorous series of preliminary regattas and the Louis Vuitton Cup, the Challenger Selection Series. Teams will compete in the AC40 class throughout 2026 and 2027, honing their skills and refining their strategies. The Louis Vuitton Cup will determine which challenger earns the right to face New Zealand in the America’s Cup Match. Currently, several teams have officially confirmed their participation, including Emirates Team New Zealand, GB1 (Athena Racing), Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli, Tudor Team Alinghi, and K-Challenge. The entry window remains open until March 31, 2026, potentially attracting additional challengers to the competition. The Royal Yacht Squadron is the Challenger of Record for a second consecutive America’s Cup, solidifying its role in shaping the competition’s rules and procedures.

The 38th America’s Cup represents more than just a sporting event; it’s a testament to human ingenuity, teamwork, and the enduring allure of the sea. As K-Challenge prepares to embark on this challenging journey, the team embodies the spirit of innovation and determination that defines the America’s Cup. The next key milestone for the team will be the preliminary regattas scheduled throughout 2026, including a confirmed event in Cagliari, Sardinia, from May 21-24, 2026. These events will provide valuable opportunities to test their skills and refine their strategies as they prepare for the ultimate challenge in Naples.

The world will be watching as these teams push the boundaries of sailing technology and athleticism. The America’s Cup, the oldest continuous competition in international sport, continues to captivate audiences worldwide with its blend of tradition, innovation, and fierce competition.