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Which Celebrities Will Join America’s Cup 2027?
Could the next America’s Cup see Hollywood stars, legendary broadcasters, or even seasoned sailors from outside the sport stepping on board? In a groundbreaking move, organizers of the 38th edition of the world’s oldest international sports competition have confirmed that each team will carry a “guest” crew member when racing begins in Naples, Italy, in 2027.
The new rule allows for a VIP, celebrity, or influencer to join the professional sailors, alongside the possibility of media representatives or sponsors. It’s a bold step designed to bring more attention, diversity, and mainstream appeal to the event.
A Seismic Shift for Sailing
Sir Ben Ainslie, four-time Olympic gold medalist and team principal of Great Britain’s Athena Racing, called it a “seismic moment” for the Cup.
“The teams and yacht clubs share a vision to make the America’s Cup more inclusive, compelling, and financially sustainable,” Ainslie said. “This new model marks a unified commitment to that vision. I am excited for the future of the sport.”
The inclusivity doesn’t stop there: each crew must now include at least one woman, and a minimum of two sailors - including one female - must be nationals of the team’s country of origin.
Who Could Step On Board?
When we have a look at the celebrities that are good in sailing, we have a list as below:
David Letterman – The legendary TV host and comedian, who is as passionate about sailing.
Jeremy Irons – The Oscar-winning actor who loves sailing.
Morgan Freeman – He is also an experienced sailor.
Antonio Banderas – Raised in the port city of Málaga, Spain, Banderas loves sailing too.
George Clooney – He is a sailor and also maybe you remember he directed a movie named "The boys in the boat"
The influencers who could be invited on board are also generating buzz. Names like Erik Aanderaa, known for his fearless solo sailing adventures on the stormy North Sea, and members of the popular YouTube sailing families Sailing La Vagabonde and Sailing Zatara, bring with them millions of devoted followers. Add to that Lauren Landers, whose fresh perspective and growing presence in the sailing community have already made her a recognizable face among younger audiences. Their involvement could give the America’s Cup a powerful digital reach, connecting the tradition of the regatta with a new generation of fans who consume sailing through social media.
Tradition Meets Star Power
The America’s Cup, first contested in 1851, has always symbolized tradition, exclusivity, and cutting-edge yacht design. But the inclusion of celebrities and influencers marks a deliberate move to reach beyond sailing circles and attract global audiences.
The 38th edition will take place in Naples, Italy in 2027, with entries for the regatta to open on 19 August.
Who Would You Like to See?
So, which celebrity would you like to see on board in 2027? Personally, I’d cast my vote for David Letterman - imagine his dry humor at a post-race press conference.
