How to Watch
Find out here if the racing is available in your territory on TV or on the AC+ App.
Sat, Jun 11
1337 Race 1 scheduled start
1403 Race 2 scheduled start
1433 Race 3 scheduled start
Sun, Jun 12
1337 Race 4 scheduled start
1403 Race 5 scheduled start
1433 Race 6 scheduled start
Update from Chicago
Thanks to our Chicago-based friends at CupInfo for an update on what to expect in the Windy City this weekend.
Advance forecasts suggest southwest winds with speeds close to ten knots, and gusts in the low teens. The outlook is also for higher temperatures, mid-80 degrees (F) and possibly topping 90.
The Chicago race venue will be in many ways the opposite of the tricky conditions seen in New York City last month, where strong currents and tides conspired with disturbed winds to frustrate the sailors and shuffle the results.
If the forecast holds, a southwesterly wind in Chicago will be blowing offshore, meaning relatively flat water on the race course. The race area is also located further from Chicago’s skyscrapers than in New York, tending to reduce the interference from wind shadows. Lake Michigan has no currents, and tides, though they exist, are imperceptible. Lake Michigan is also free from the floating seaweed seen at other venues that could foul rudders and daggerboards.
The main wild card in the sailing conditions at this point, especially with predictions for above average temperatures, is the chance for thunderstorms. The early afternoon race schedule has a good chance of dodging intermittent storms if they occur.
Regardless of wind direction, organizers will try to set the course with the start/finish lines located as close as possible to the end of the 3,300-foot-long (1,000-meter-long) Navy Pier. The America’s Cup race village and VIP hospitality will be located on the eastern end of the Pier, with grandstands, video screens, and other activities for 25,000 ticket-buying fans.
Aside from the America’s Cup Village, the remainder of the Pier will still be free to the public. There will also be free viewing opportunities along the shore, with the least obstructed views located to the south of the race area along Bond Drive, adjacent to the Adler Planetarium and the Shedd Aquarium, though the racing will take place at some distance. Navy Pier, or an excursion boat, will really be the best places to get close to the action.