After a 25-year absence, an Australian team is finally returning to the world's most prestigious sailing competition. The Royal Prince Edward Yacht Club's Team Australia has officially announced their challenge for the Louis Vuitton 38th America's Cup, set to take place in Naples, Italy next year.

This announcement comes at a particularly nostalgic time for sailing fans. Following the recent passing of legendary skipper Ted Turner, memories of America's Cup glory days have been flooding back—especially the unforgettable 1983 showdown when Australia II shattered the New York Yacht Club's 132-year winning streak. That historic moment changed the sport forever, and now a new generation of Australian sailors is ready to write their own chapter.

Team Australia isn't just showing up—they're bringing a dream team of sailing royalty. Leading the charge as Head of Sailing is Tom Slingsby, an Olympic gold medalist, multiple SailGP champion, and two-time World Sailor of the Year. Three-time America's Cup winner Glenn Ashby will serve as Head of Performance & Design, bringing unmatched technical expertise. And at the helm as CEO is Grant Simmer, a veteran of that legendary 1983 Australia II campaign.

"For me, this campaign is both deeply personal and incredibly exciting," Simmer shared. "I first became involved in the America's Cup in the early 1980s and was fortunate to be part of the legendary Australia II team that changed the course of the Cup forever. Since then, I've been involved in every America's Cup edition, including Australia's successful hosting of the event in Fremantle, still regarded as one of the greatest Cups in history."

With cutting-edge hydrofoiling race boats and a roster stacked with world-class talent, Team Australia is poised to make waves in Naples. Whether you're a lifelong sailing enthusiast or just love a good underdog story, this is one comeback you won't want to miss.