America’s Cup: Genova strengthens its international vocation in sailing

On the occasion of the second day of the "Yacht&Garden" event, held as part of the Classic Boat Show, sailors from past and present gathered at the Sea Your Pavilion at the Marina di Sestri Ponente to explore the deep connection between large yachts, Italy’s competitive sailing history, and the partnership between Genova and Napoli in preparation for the 2027 America’s Cup.

The event highlighted the strategic role of Genova within this context, emphasizing its maritime tradition and its ability to position itself as a leading hub in the global nautical industry.

Sailing represents a defining element for coastal cities and, in this context, Genova stands out as one of Italy’s main centers for the sector. The prospect of hosting major international events contributes to strengthening the city’s positioning, generating positive impacts in terms of visibility, tourism appeal, and economic development. Events such as the America’s Cup and The Ocean Race are in fact consolidating Italy’s role in global sailing and offer Genova an important opportunity for growth.

The region can already rely on well-established strategic assets, such as the presence of the national headquarters of the Federazione Italiana Vela, as well as new infrastructure projects aimed at further strengthening the offering. In particular, the Waterfront di Levante is emerging as one of the key developments, with the creation of the future Casa della Vela: a space designed to host sailing clubs, associations, and events throughout the year, helping to make sailing a permanent element of city life.

The focus on international sailing is part of a broader strategy to enhance the value of the sea as a driver of development. Italy’s history in the America’s Cup, beginning with its first participation in the 1980s, had a strong media impact and helped spread sailing culture among the wider public. Today, this heritage is being relaunched in a contemporary way, with the goal of attracting new generations and strengthening an economic ecosystem connected to the sea.

The outlook for 2027, with the launch of the first preliminary regattas, therefore represents a crucial milestone. For Genova, this is a concrete opportunity to reinforce its central role in the Mediterranean, promote the region internationally, and generate new opportunities for investment, innovation, and sustainable development in the nautical and tourism sectors.