Tudor Team Alinghi has announced its starting crew for the Louis Vuitton 38th America's Cup Preliminary Regatta Sardinia, scheduled in Cagliari from 22 to 24 May. The Swiss challenger fields a four-person crew following a training period with two boats in Barcelona.

On the starboard helm as skipper is Paul Goodison, British, born 1977, Olympic gold medallist in the Laser at Beijing 2008, three-time Moth world champion and now in his fourth America's Cup campaign. On the port helm is New Zealander Phil Robertson, born 1987, 2019 World Match Racing Tour champion, who served as coach for Alinghi Red Bull Racing during the 37th America's Cup and now moves into an operational helming role.

The two trimmers are Swiss sailor Nicolas Rolaz, born 1999, 2014 Optimist world champion and already a team member in the 37th edition, and Italian Pietro Sibello, born 1979, with two Olympic appearances in the 49er class (2004 and 2008), who served as head coach in the 37th America's Cup with Alinghi Red Bull Racing and previously sailed with Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli Team in 2021. Under the nationality rules of the 38th America's Cup Protocol, Sibello is eligible as a sailor for the Swiss entry.

Goodison said the team is motivated, aware there is still work ahead and ground to make up, but that the challenge is stimulating and the desire to race is strong. Robertson recalled watching Alinghi's victories in 2003 and 2007 and expressed pride at being part of the team. Rolaz said he grew up watching Alinghi's wins from home and that being part of the squad is a source of great pride. Sibello highlighted the mutual trust and effective communication with Rolaz, and the pleasure of racing in Italy, where the America's Cup public is particularly passionate.

The Sardinia Preliminary Regatta is the first competitive event on the road to the 38th America's Cup, scheduled for 2027 in Naples. The event does not count toward the final standings but gives teams the opportunity to test their form, onboard systems and communication in a one-design fleet racing context. Official practice takes place on Thursday 21 May, with fleet races from 22 to 24 May starting daily at 15:00 CEST. The final day also includes a match race final.