Barcelona, set to shine at the 37th America's Cup opening ceremony

Barcelona is preparing to host the 37th America's Cup opening ceremony, which will take place at 9 p.m. on October 10, 2024, at Platja de Bogatell. The event will highlight the power of sport, fused with art and culture as agents of change and a capacity for commitment.

With America's Cup Event leading the production and distribution, the ceremony will be broadcast globally for an international audience. A spectacular show will feature stunning visuals, including drones, laser constellations, LED screens, avatars, and seas of light, paired with soundtracks and musical performances designed to take the viewer on an emotional journey that will captivate audiences worldwide.

“The America's Cup has stimulated the growth of the blue economy and the Catalan nautical sector, and has strengthened its research and innovation ecosystem”

Miquel Sàmper, Minister of Business and Labour of the Government of Catalonia and President of the Barcelona Nautical Capital Foundation

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Barcelona, known for its rich culture and innovation, is the perfect setting for this event, blending technology, art, and nature seamlessly. Drawing inspiration from the sea, wind, and sail, the ceremony will reflect human creativity and collaboration, offering a narrative that reconnects audiences with the essence of nature and the wonders of maritime adventure.

The opening ceremony is part of the event's legacy projects, coordinated with local institutions through the Barcelona Nautical Capital Foundation. It will serve as a central celebration of the 'Barcelona, lighthouse to the world' initiative, which aims to embody the spirit of the historic America's Cup, now in its 173rd year.

Announcing the details of this spectacle at the official presentation on Thursday 26th September 2024, the institutional and artistic managers involved included: Miquel Sàmper, Minister of Business and Labour of the Government of Catalonia and President of the Barcelona Nautical Capital Foundation; Jordi Valls, fourth Deputy Mayor of the Area of Economy, Finance, Economic Promotion and Tourism of Barcelona City Council; Leslie Ryan, Event Director America's Cup Event Barcelona; Joan Códol, director general of Focus; Albert Guinovart, composer and director of the soundtrack of the ceremony; and Hansel Cereza, director and scene creator.

In anticipation of the event, Grant Dalton, CEO of America's Cup Event Barcelona, highlighted the city's unique energy, saying, "Our connection with Barcelona, its people, culture, and identity has resonated with the values we've sought to promote at the Louis Vuitton 37th America's Cup – Sustainability, Diversity, Inclusion, Technology, and Innovation".

Leslie Ryan, Event Director of America's Cup Events (ACE) Barcelona, stated: "Ever since we selected Barcelona as our host venue, we have felt the unique energy, which is what makes Barcelona such a special and iconic city on a global level. We are convinced that fans around the world will appreciate such a spectacular and memorable concert, one that will continue to showcase the successful partnership between Barcelona and the Louis Vuitton 37th America's Cup".

Catalan Minister for Business and Labour, Miquel Sàmper, highlighted the legacy the America's Cup will leave to the city, saying: "This presentation ceremony of an artistic exhibition linked to a sporting event is a good example of the legacy that the America's Cup will leave, beyond this event".

The head of Business and Labour has emphasized that this competition "has stimulated the growth of the blue economy and the Catalan nautical sector, and has strengthened its research and innovation ecosystem, always with sustainability as a framework".

Jordi Valls, fourth deputy mayor for Economy, Tax, Economic Promotion and Tourism of the Barcelona City Council, added: "With the hosting of the America's Cup, Barcelona brings the sea into the city, not only to enjoy it but also to become a boost for the blue and green economy. This opening ceremony is art, culture, sports, innovation, avant-garde, technology and economic stimulus. Because, the ultimate meaning of this event is to serve the citizens, to improve the competitivity of the city, employment, the quality of life, and the prosperity of its neighbours".

Source: 37th America's Cup