America's Cup

The America’s Cup Trophy, also called the Auld Mug, is one of the most iconic and prestigious trophies in the world of sports — and the oldest international sporting trophy still being contested.

• Name: America’s Cup (also known as the Auld Mug)
• Material: Sterling silver
• Height: About 27 inches (69 cm) tall, not including later-added bases
• Weight: Approximately 14 kilograms (30 pounds)
• Created by: Garrard & Co., the London silversmiths
• Year Made: 1848
• Designer: Edmund Cotterill

The trophy was originally crafted as a decorative ewer (a type of ornate pitcher) rather than a sports cup. It was purchased by the Royal Yacht Squadron and awarded as the prize for a race around the Isle of Wight in 1851. The winning yacht was America, representing the New York Yacht Club — and that’s how the trophy got its name.

The America’s Cup represents international yacht racing supremacy. Since 1851, it has been awarded to the yacht club that wins the head-to-head match race — called “the Match” — between the Defender (the current holder) and a Challenger. The trophy has survived wars, theft attempts, and countless disputes over race rules.

The original deed of gift declared it a “perpetual challenge cup for friendly competition between nations.” That phrase still defines its spirit.

The trophy’s design has evolved:

• The original body is a Victorian-style ewer with elaborate repoussé floral engravings.
• Over the years, additional bases have been added to accommodate engraving of the winners’ names and dates — these extensions have made it taller.
• It bears engravings of every winning yacht, skipper, and year since 1851.

In 1997, it was damaged by a vandal at the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, but was meticulously repaired by Garrard’s in London.

Traditionally, the trophy resides with the current Defender’s yacht club — currently Emirates Team New Zealand as of the latest competition — until it is won by another challenger.

Beyond sailing, the America’s Cup Trophy symbolizes:

• Innovation in marine design and technology
• National pride and competition
• A legacy of sportsmanship that’s lasted for over 170 years

It’s not just a cup — it’s a statement of nautical engineering, strategy, and prestige.