After three Olympic appearances and six America’s Cup campaigns, the Italian sailor is bringing his experience to Luna Rossa’s coaching team. Francesco Bruni remains an important figure in Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli’s campaign for the 2027 America’s Cup in Naples. Following an international career that included three Olympic Games and six America’s Cup appearances, the Italian sailor has moved into a coaching role, bringing his extensive racing experience to the team's technical preparation. The transition marks a new chapter for an athlete who has spent much of his career competing at the highest level of international sailing.
Update
Francesco Bruni embraces a new challenge with Luna Rossa ahead of the 2027 America’s Cup
After three Olympic appearances and six America’s Cup campaigns, the Italian sailor is bringing his experience to Luna Rossa’s coaching team.
Francesco Bruni remains an important figure in Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli’s campaign for the 2027 America’s Cup in Naples.
Following an international career that included three Olympic Games and six America’s Cup appearances, the Italian sailor has moved into a coaching role, bringing his extensive racing experience to the team's technical preparation.
The transition marks a new chapter for an athlete who has spent much of his career competing at the highest level of international sailing.
A remarkable international sailing career
Widely known as Checco, Bruni has demonstrated exceptional versatility throughout his sporting career.
He represented Italy at three Olympic Games in the Laser, 49er and Star classes and also won a world title in match racing.
His experience extends across offshore sailing, multihulls and the advanced foiling yachts that have transformed modern competitive sailing.
Bruni's relationship with Luna Rossa began in 2003. Apart from the 2017 campaign with Artemis Racing, he has represented the Italian team throughout his America's Cup career.
During the two most recent editions, he served as one of Luna Rossa's helmsmen.
A new role within the coaching team
Moving from the racecourse into a coaching position has required Bruni to adapt to different responsibilities.
With the support of team director Max Sirena, the transition has taken place gradually, allowing him to continue racing in other sailing classes while becoming increasingly involved in the team's preparation.
His main responsibilities include match racing, rules interpretation and supporting weather analysis.
Bruni also contributes to the development of the AC75, helping the technical team assess modifications and determine whether they deliver improvements in performance.
His knowledge of high-level competition provides valuable insight into the relationship between boat design, sailing techniques and race strategy.
Working alongside a former rival
One of the most interesting aspects of Bruni's new position is his relationship with Peter Burling.
The two sailors competed against each other during the 2021 America's Cup final, when Bruni represented Luna Rossa and Burling sailed for Emirates Team New Zealand.
They are now working together within the Italian team's campaign.
Bruni has expressed great respect for Burling's abilities, describing their professional relationship as positive and focused on the challenges ahead.
Their shared experience at the highest level of the sport adds another dimension to Luna Rossa's preparation.
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.
