AC40 class: a new scaled down 40-foot foiling monohull

AC40s will be used for both the Women’s and Youth America’s Cup events as a key tool for creating the pathway into the AC for women and the next generation of foiling sailors.

One of the new aspects of the 37th America’s Cup is the introduction of the multipurpose One Design AC40 class - a scaled down 40-foot foiling monohull version of the AC75 class, which teams will be able to convert and use for testing, component development and training. With self-tacking headsails and battery power replacing grinders, the yacht is sailed by a crew of four – two helmsmen and two trimmers. An autopilot control system maintains stable flight.

The teams can utilise the AC40 as a training boat for honing match racing skills, and/or a development mule for testing new rig or foil designs. In light winds the AC40 is expected to be able to sail at up to 26 knots at 46º upwind and 30 knots boat speed at 138º downwind. At the upper limits of 20 knots TWS, the boat speeds are expected to escalate to 39 knots upwind at 41º and 44 knots at an angle of 155º downwind.

After being returned to full one design configuration, the AC40 fleet will also be used for any preliminary regattas prior to the Challenger Selection Series and the 37thAmerica’s Cup Match – such as America’s Cup World Series events – as well as for the Youth America’s Cup and Women’s America’s Cup.

The Protocol of the 37th America’s Cup specifies there will be up to three Preliminary Regattas, the first two raced in AC40s, the last one at the Match venue in AC75s. The Challenger Selection Series and the America’s Cup Match will be held in 2024, with the Match Venue and approximate event dates to be announced by March 31st 2022.