The America's Cup, sailing's most prestigious competition, has entered a new era of governance with the appointment of its first chief executive officer. Marzio Perrelli assumed the role on April 7, 2026, marking a fundamental shift in how the 174-year-old event is managed.
While Perrelli takes the helm as CEO, Emirates Team New Zealand's Grant Dalton will continue his leadership role as chairman of the America's Cup Partnership (ACP). The dual leadership structure is designed to create greater stability and consistent framework for teams, host venues, and commercial partners.
This transition represents the first time in America's Cup history that the event has moved away from a "Defender-centric" model. The new shared governance structure provides equal board representation for five founding teams: Emirates Team New Zealand, Athena Racing, Luna Rossa, Tudor Team Alinghi, and K-Challenge.
Perrelli brings extensive experience in financial discipline and sports rights management to the position. His career includes senior leadership roles at Goldman Sachs and HSBC, followed by his position as Executive Vice President of Sky Italy where he oversaw the entire Sky Sports division.
"My primary responsibility is to preserve the deep heritage of the America's Cup while ensuring the stability and growth required for the sport's future," said Perrelli, outlining his vision for the role.
The ACP has also committed the event to a biennial cycle, addressing historical challenges with inconsistent scheduling that complicated broadcasting agreements and sponsor relationships.
Grant Dalton, who remains both ACP chairman and CEO of Emirates Team New Zealand, welcomed the appointment. The veteran sailor has raced around the globe seven times and led Team New Zealand to victory at the 35th America's Cup in Bermuda in 2017.
"The timing is critical," Dalton noted regarding Perrelli's appointment. "We're looking forward to the 2027 competition, which is expected to see large participation and the historic introduction of women on board for the first time."
The governance changes come as the America's Cup prepares for several milestones, including expanded team participation and the integration of female sailors in the 2027 competition. The new structure aims to provide the stability necessary for sustained investment and global engagement in the historic sailing competition.
Attention now turns to how the new leadership structure will implement the biennial cycle and manage the transition toward the 38th America's Cup, with particular focus on the planned inclusion of women competitors and the expanded team participation expected in 2027.
