ROME, May 15, 2025 (BSS/AFP) - The next edition of sailing's America's Cup will be held in Naples, Italy, in 2027, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni announced on Thursday.

"I am proud to announce that the America's Cup will be held, for the first time in history, in Italy. Naples will be the host city in 2027 for the 38th edition of the world's most famous and prestigious sailing tournament," Meloni said in a statement.

The races for one of the oldest competitions in international sport will be held in the spring and summer of 2027, organisers said.

"The fight for the Louis Vuitton 38th America's Cup will take place under the watchful shadow of Mt Vesuvius and just off the waterfront of the vibrant city," read a statement from the cup.

Trophy holders Team New Zealand -- who have held the America's Cup since 2017 -- will be defending the title they won in October last year against INEOS Britannia in Barcelona.

Team New Zealand CEO Grant Dalton cited Italian challenger Luna Rossa as "such an amazing team and strong competitor" while calling Italians "the most passionate and engaged America's Cup audience".

"So, from the Defender's position it certainly feels like we are entering the lion's den competitively, but from an event perspective it feels like the perfect venue to host the Louis Vuitton 38th America's Cup," Dalton said.

Despite their recent success on the water, Team New Zealand said last month they could not secure government backing to host the prestigious regatta.