(Adnkronos) – Italy has hailed the awarding of the 2027 America’s Cup regatta to the southern city of Naples, calling it an “excellent” result that will bring economic rewards and boost tourism.
“Excellent result, great work by (sports minister Andrea) Abodi,” said foreign minister Antonio Tajani.
“It will be very useful to increase the numbers of tourists to our country as it was for the (2023) Ryder Cup (golf challenge)”, Tajani said.
Naples’ hosting of the 38th edition of the prestigious America’s Cup “will be a great moment for a great Mediterranean city,” Tajani noted.
“There will also be economic advantages and an extraordinary opportunity to boost tourism,” he said.
Naples faced tough competition from other candidate cities including Athens and Auckland, and its selection marks the first time Italy will host the world’s oldest sporting contest.
In a statement on Thursday, Italy’s premier Giorgia Meloni said she was “proud to announce that the Americas’ Cup will be held in Italy for the first time.”
“Millions of fans will be drawn to this global event, which is the world’s most famous and prestigious sailing contest, blending tradition, technological innovation, engineering excellence and the spirit of competition,” Meloni stated.
Seafaring represents Italy’s “history, identity and culture”, she said.
“It is also a crucial part of our economy, thanks to the leading position Italy occupies in shipbuilding, shipping, the cruise industry and so many other sectors linked to the blue economy,” Meloni underlined.
