America’s Cup in Valencia: Port, History and Visiting

After the Swiss team Alinghi won the 31st America’s Cup in 2003, the next competition had to be held in Europe. Valencia was selected to host the 32nd Cup. Its Mediterranean location, large port and potential to establish a race village right by the water made the city a suitable choice for teams, organizers and spectators. Preparing for the event meant extensive work in the port area: as well as facilities for teams and spectators, new access routes and landmark buildings were created at the marina, which was being developed at the time.

The America’s Cup is a match-racing competition between two teams for the silver trophy, first awarded at a regatta off the Isle of Wight in 1851. Unlike an open regatta, the decisive Cup match usually pits the defending champion against a challenger in a series of races. The rules, boat classes and qualification formats change from one edition to the next.

In 2007, the competition returned to Europe. The Swiss team Alinghi defended its title against Emirates Team New Zealand, winning 5–2. The races off Valencia could be watched from the shore, while a venue for teams, media and visitors was set up in the port. The Cup brought top-level sport to a place that is also worth visiting independently of the regatta. If you’re interested in other sports in the city, our overview of football in Valencia has information about clubs and stadiums. The connection between the city, the Mediterranean and the port can still easily be included in a day out.

Those races are now part of history. To learn more about the sporting side of the Cup, you can explore the participating teams, boat designs and match-racing format. A visit to Valencia, however, is no substitute for experiencing a current regatta: there is no guarantee that teams, Cup boats or a public race village will be there.

The 33rd America’s Cup was also held in Valencia, in 2010, this time as a contest between defending champion Alinghi and US challenger BMW Oracle Racing. The American team won both races with the trimaran USA 17. This match was quite different from the 2007 edition: only two boats competed, and the result was decided in a compact format. For that reason, the label “America’s Cup 2009” on older websites or materials is not a correct announcement of a Valencia race that was still to come at the time.

The two editions explain why the port is still associated with the competition. However, they should not be confused with later Cup editions held elsewhere. The venue is chosen anew for each edition, so dates and event sites always belong to the host city for that particular edition.

A walk takes you from the marina along the waterfront to the large port areas and the Veles e Vents building, designed for the Cup and now a distinctive landmark in the marina. From outside, you can take in the architecture, harbor basins and coastline together. Access to interior areas, restaurants and events may change, so check the latest information before visiting.

The port is both a working area and a place for leisure. Not every area is open to the public, and security and operational zones should be respected. Public paths along the marina and the adjoining promenade are suitable for a stroll. For details about berths and planning a visit, see our overview of the Marina Port Valencia. If you’d like to combine your outing with a beach visit or time in the city, explore our pages on yachting and marinas in the Valencia region, beach holidays and culture and architecture.

Allow enough time for a visit to the port if you’d also like to explore the waterfront paths and architecture. The marina isn’t right next to the main attractions in the historic center, so plan your journey by bus, tram, taxi or bicycle based on current connections. In summer, mornings and late afternoons are often more comfortable for longer walks. There isn’t shade everywhere in the exposed port area.

One simple itinerary is to visit the old town or the City of Arts and Sciences first, then travel to the marina and finish with a walk around the port, a meal or some time by the sea. If you’re planning a longer stay, you can combine the marina with more ideas for exploring Valencia. To plan your arrival, compare the airports in the Valencia region and choose a transfer that suits your destination. You can adjust the order depending on the weather, opening hours and your interests. Check current routes, roadworks and timetables before travelling, as these can change.

• The Valencia matches took place in 2007 and 2010; they are not an annual event.
• A visit to the port lets you see the venue and its surroundings, but doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll see Cup boats or a team base.
• Admission, tours and access to event or operational areas are not guaranteed on an ongoing basis.
• If you’re interested in a current Cup edition, first check the host city, regatta calendar and official spectator information.
• Use public paths for photos and walks, and respect barriers in the port.

When was the America’s Cup held in Valencia?

Valencia hosted the 32nd America’s Cup in 2007 and the 33rd America’s Cup in 2010. The 2010 races were a separate contest between Alinghi and BMW Oracle Racing.

Who won the 2007 edition?

Alinghi of Switzerland defended the title against Emirates Team New Zealand, winning 5–2.

Who won the 2010 match?

BMW Oracle Racing won both races against Alinghi. The team sailed the trimaran USA 17.

Can you still see traces of the Cup today?

Yes. The marina and the distinctive Veles e Vents building recall the port’s development for the regattas. Check current information about access and the ongoing use of individual areas.

Is there a race in Valencia every year?

No. The Cup venue changes. Before travelling to a race, check the official announcement for the specific edition.

Where can I find reliable information about the Cup editions?

The America’s Cup’s official retrospective identifies Valencia as a host venue and provides context for the 2007 and 2010 regattas. For current host cities and dates, refer to the announcement for the relevant Cup edition.

Official retrospective: America’s Cup venues – Valencia