American Magic opens high performance centre in Pensacola
by American Magic 7 Jan 16:18 PST
Work out Gym - American Magic's High Performance Centre in Pensacola, Florida - January 2026 © American Magic
American Magic opened the American Magic High Performance Center (AMHPC) at the Port of Pensacola Wednesday January 7, marking a milestone in the team's mission to build a world-class sailing and performance platform in the United States.
The center serves as the team's operational base and hub for American Magic Services (AMS), where the team's composite manufacturing and engineering expertise drives advanced manufacturing, marine technologies, and aerospace projects. By combining elite sailing programs with cutting-edge design and precision engineering, Pensacola is positioned as a global center for performance sailing and technological innovation.
The High Performance Center will also operate as the official North American training base for SailGP teams, following a partnership announcement between American Magic and the global sail racing championship. Beginning in September 2026, the Pensacola facility will provide SailGP teams with access to world-class on-water and shore-based training infrastructure, supporting year-round preparation, technical development, and athlete performance.
Doug DeVos, Co-Founder of American Magic, said: "The American Magic High Performance Center is the foundation of our long-term vision: building a sustainable, high-performance American sailing platform. By positioning Pensacola and the U.S. as a destination for world-class training, we strengthen our ability to support all sailors in national and international competitions such as youth, women, Olympic, and SailGP programs."
A Platform for Performance, Innovation, and Development
Founded in 2017, American Magic has competed in two America's Cup campaigns and supports sailors across multiple disciplines. The AMHPC integrates:
- Elite Athlete Programs: America One Racing, Women's and Youth programs, the U.S. Olympic pathway, and SailGP.
- American Magic Services (AMS): Composite production, R&D, and design innovation for both racing and commercial projects.
- Talent Development: Internships and workforce pathways in partnership with the University of West Florida, Pensacola State College, and the City of Pensacola.
- International Competition: Programs and partnerships that keep Pensacola connected to the forefront of high-performance sailing worldwide.
Terry Hutchinson, President of Sailing Operations, American Magic, said: "Pensacola has the scale and ambition to support elite programs, and we are proud to call it our home. The High Performance Center is designed to support athlete development at every level. From the foiling pipeline through America One Racing and SailGP to youth and women's programs, our goal is to deliver world-class training environments that elevate performance and prepare sailors for the highest levels of competition."
Tyson Lamond, Chief Operating Officer, American Magic, said: "Since our first day in Pensacola, the local community has welcomed us with open arms. This facility is more than a building; it is an innovation hub that combines elite athletic preparation with advanced design, engineering, and manufacturing technologies. It is built to support elite competition and drive long-term economic impact. It will develop the next generation of sailors, designers, and shore teams to create opportunities for local talent, and support Pensacola's growth as a global sailing destination."
Partnerships and Economic Impact
The AMHPC results from a collaboration among American Magic, the City of Pensacola, Triumph Gulf Coast, the State of Florida, and the Port of Pensacola. The project has already created jobs, internships, and training opportunities while reinforcing Pensacola's standing as a premier destination for sailing and innovation.
Pensacola Mayor D.C. Reeves said, "American Magic's commitment to Pensacola is transformational. This facility creates jobs, stimulates economic activity, and firmly plants a flag in our city as a leading sailing destination. We are proud to host a world-class operation that supports innovation, education, and elite competition."