Rising stars from 12 teams race in high-speed AC40s at UniCredit Youth America’s Cup
The UniCredit Youth America’s Cup is about to set Barcelona ablaze from September 17-26, as the next generation of sailing stars race for the ultimate prize. With sleek, lightning-fast AC40s—capable of hitting 50 knots—these young athletes are bringing their A-game to the newly revamped Port Olímpic, and the competition is fierce.
In the America’s Cup Youth Teams division, all eyes are on big names like Marco Gradoni (Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli) and Harry Melges IV (NYYC American Magic), both tipped for greatness after extensive training with their senior teams. But it’s not just about star power. The Kiwis, led by Leo Takahashi (Emirates Team New Zealand), have been silently perfecting their craft in Auckland, and the British Athena Pathway Youth Team, skippered by Nick Robins, has logged serious hours on the water in Badalona. And don’t forget Switzerland’s Jann Schüpbach, an ex-Olympian pushing Alinghi Red Bull Racing to the limit. With this level of competition, there’s no clear front-runner—it’s going to be a tight race.
The Invited Teams division is harder to predict, with crews from Sweden, Australia, Spain, and more ready to make their mark. Sweden’s Oscar Engström, with loads of training in Northern Ireland, might have an edge, but Australia’s Andoo team and the Dutch, German, and Canadian teams are all looking sharp after intense simulator sessions. It’s going to come down to who can transfer those virtual skills to real-world speed on the water.
The race format is cutthroat: only the top three teams from each division will progress to the final series of races. Then, after four high-octane races, the top two teams will battle it out in a do-or-die match race to be crowned the 2024 UniCredit Youth America’s Cup champions.
For these young sailors, this isn’t just about lifting a trophy—it’s about proving themselves in front of scouts, senior teams, and the world. With careers on the line and reputations to build, expect jaw-dropping speed, cutthroat tactics, and new rivalries that could shape the future of the sport.
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