From the redevelopment of Bagnoli to new opportunities for young people on Nisida, the America’s Cup aims to create a legacy extending far beyond competitive sailing. Naples, September 22, 2026 – As Naples prepares to welcome the America’s Cup Preliminary Regatta, the international sailing event is also becoming an opportunity to highlight the wider social impact of sport and its potential to contribute to urban and personal renewal. Speaking during the institutional ceremony marking the beginning of the preliminary regatta week, held at the Juvenile Detention Centre on the island of Nisida, Marco Mezzaroma, President of Sport e Salute, emphasized the importance of using major sporting events to communicate positive values. According to Mezzaroma, sport has the ability to reach communities and places that are not always involved in international events, offering messages of determination, resilience and the possibility of starting again after difficult experiences.
Update
America’s Cup in Naples: Mezzaroma highlights sport’s power to inspire renewal and second chances
From the redevelopment of Bagnoli to new opportunities for young people on Nisida, the America’s Cup aims to create a legacy extending far beyond competitive sailing.
Naples, September 22, 2026 – As Naples prepares to welcome the America’s Cup Preliminary Regatta, the international sailing event is also becoming an opportunity to highlight the wider social impact of sport and its potential to contribute to urban and personal renewal.
Speaking during the institutional ceremony marking the beginning of the preliminary regatta week, held at the Juvenile Detention Centre on the island of Nisida, Marco Mezzaroma, President of Sport e Salute, emphasized the importance of using major sporting events to communicate positive values.
According to Mezzaroma, sport has the ability to reach communities and places that are not always involved in international events, offering messages of determination, resilience and the possibility of starting again after difficult experiences.
Bagnoli and Nisida: two symbols of renewal
Mezzaroma connected the social message of the America’s Cup with the redevelopment of Bagnoli, where preparations are continuing for the facilities associated with the international sailing competition.
The transformation of this area is intended to provide new opportunities for a district that has long awaited regeneration.
Meanwhile, hosting the opening ceremony on Nisida carries an important symbolic meaning.
Bringing the America’s Cup closer to young people at the juvenile detention centre offers an opportunity to demonstrate how sport can encourage personal growth, self-confidence and hope for the future.
Sport as a lesson in resilience
For Mezzaroma, one of the most important lessons of sport is that setbacks do not have to define a person’s future.
Losing a competition, making mistakes or facing difficult circumstances can become part of a journey towards improvement and new opportunities.
This philosophy reflects the broader ambition of Sport e Salute to connect the America’s Cup with community participation and social development.
With the Naples Preliminary Regatta scheduled for September 24–27, 2026, the city is preparing for an international sporting celebration that aims to combine world-class sailing with a lasting message of renewal, inclusion and opportunity.
The event offers Naples a chance to demonstrate that the legacy of a major sporting competition can extend beyond the racecourse, reaching communities and inspiring future generations.
FAQ
Is this official event information?
No. AC Naples 2027 is an independent visitor guide. Official information should be checked on official America's Cup channels.
