Naples is using the Preliminary Regatta of the 38th Louis Vuitton America's Cup to present itself, not just to host sailing. During the pre-regatta days, the City of Naples, through its council departments and DMO Napoli, will be present at the Race Village on the Lungomare with a public programme running from 24 to 27 September.
The initiative combines debates, school workshops and public events focused on sustainable mobility, research, sport and promotion of the local area.
The City's space near Piazza Vittoria
The institutional space near Piazza Vittoria will host meetings and activities on transport, sustainable tourism, research, schools, the municipal districts and Naples as European Capital of Sport 2026.
The city programme includes a discussion with UnicoCampania, workshops for schools, activities linked to the European Researchers' Night and events dedicated to the Metropolitan City of Naples.
In practice, the Race Village becomes a showcase for how Naples wants to discuss its future: public transport and sustainable travel, the role of schools and research, and the sporting year ahead in 2026.
How to watch: free Race Village on Lungomare Caracciolo
The Race Village on Lungomare Caracciolo, on Via Francesco Caracciolo, is free and open daily from 11:00. Racing is scheduled from 25 to 27 September, with starts from 14:00 and three races per day.
Nine AC40 boats are taking part in the regatta. Visitors who cannot follow the action directly from the water can watch the races on giant screens, alongside meet-and-greets, music and sailing-related activities.
For first-time visitors, the formula is simple: arrive before the 14:00 start, find a viewing spot in the village, and stay for the afternoon programme around the screens.
Sailing for everyone
The public programme includes activities organised by the Federazione Italiana Vela, including the Foil Academy, the Para Sailing Academy and a sailing school for children.
Side events also include activities for 300 schoolchildren from Caivano, a village dedicated to the European Week of Sport, concerts and a closing ceremony with the prize-giving on 27 September.
Together, these activities make the village accessible even to those who have never sailed: children can try sailing school sessions, while the academies introduce foil sailing and para sailing to a wider audience.
What to expect from 24 to 27 September
The city's institutional events run across four days, while on-the-water racing concentrates on the final three days, from 25 to 27 September.
Visitors planning a day at the Race Village should expect debates and workshops during the city programme, daily opening from 11:00, racing coverage from 14:00, sailing activities for young people, and evening music and public events leading up to the final awards ceremony on 27 September.
