Auckland has officially withdrawn its bid to host the 38th America’s Cup in 2027, Tātaki Auckland Unlimited (TAU) confirmed this week.

The bid depended on a joint funding agreement between Auckland Council, central government, and private partners.

However, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) advised that government support could not be secured—bringing the campaign to an end.

TAU Chief Executive Nick Hill said the team had worked hard to bring the event back to Auckland, where world-class infrastructure and experienced event staff were already in place.

“We really wanted to be able to host our sailors on home waters,” he said.

The loss is more than symbolic.

Major sporting events like the America’s Cup bring significant benefits to host cities—including increased tourism, job creation, and global exposure.

TAU emphasised that the situation highlights the urgent need for a sustainable, long-term funding model for major events in New Zealand.

While the news is disappointing for sailing fans across the Hibiscus Coast and the country, Auckland remains strongly supportive of Emirates Team New Zealand and its future America’s Cup campaigns, wherever they may take place.

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