As I watched the gripping races of the 37th America’s Cup unfold, witnessing New Zealand and Great Britain engage in a battle of skill, agility, and split-second decision-making, I was struck by how much yacht racing can teach us about smarter execution.

These races epitomize the adaptive strategies essential for navigating today’s complex and fast-paced business environment.

In the best adaptive models, execution and strategy are tightly linked in a feedback loop. Execution doesn’t just follow strategy—it actively informs and refines it.

Think of it as a dynamic cycle: Strategy provides the initial direction, but as execution unfolds, real-time data and outcomes are fed back into the strategy. This feedback loop allows organizations to adjust their strategic aims and tactical actions based on what’s actually working (or not working) in the field.

In yacht racing, for instance, the crew might start with a strategic plan based on known weather forecasts, competitor analysis, and water conditions. But as they race, the conditions change, and each adjustment in execution (like adjusting the sails or shifting weight) provides instant feedback on the boat’s performance, which can lead to a new micro-strategy or shift in direction.

Similarly, in business, adaptive strategies encourage continuous learning. Execution generates valuable insights, and when these insights are looped back to adjust the strategy, it leads to smarter, more resilient outcomes. So, rather than a linear relationship, it’s a constant, reciprocal loop—strategy sets the direction, execution tests it, and feedback refines it.

The 37th America’s Cup

The 37th America’s Cup, held in October 2024 in Barcelona, Spain, featured a highly anticipated series of yacht races between Emirates Team New Zealand and INEOS Britannia, representing Great Britain. This event marked Great Britain’s first appearance in the America’s Cup final in 60 years, as they sought to claim the prestigious trophy for the first time in the competition’s 173-year history.

The competition followed a best-of-13 format, with the first team to secure seven victories winning the Cup. Emirates Team New Zealand, the defending champions, demonstrated exceptional performance throughout the series. They quickly established a commanding lead, winning the first four races. Despite a spirited effort from INEOS Britannia, who managed to win two races and narrow the gap to 4-2, New Zealand maintained their dominance. Ultimately, Emirates Team New Zealand clinched the series with a 7-2 victory, securing their third consecutive America’s Cup title.

The races were characterized by high-speed maneuvers and strategic prowess, with both teams navigating the challenging conditions of the Mediterranean waters. Emirates Team New Zealand’s consistent performance and tactical acumen were pivotal in their successful defense of the Cup. This victory further solidified their status as a formidable force in international yacht racing.

For Great Britain, the series was a significant milestone, marking their return to the America’s Cup final after a long hiatus. Despite the loss, INEOS Britannia’s performance showcased the team’s potential and determination to compete at the highest level of the sport. Their efforts were widely recognized, and the experience gained is expected to contribute to future campaigns.

The 37th America’s Cup not only highlighted the intense rivalry between New Zealand and Great Britain but also underscored the evolving dynamics of competitive sailing, where technology, strategy, and skill converge to create a spectacle of maritime excellence.

Reflecting on Smarter Execution

Reflecting on the race series made me dip back into the excellent 2008 book, Smarter Execution, by Gilbert, Davidson, et al, here are three core lessons that stand out:

1. Real-time Adjustments are Key
Just as Emirates Team New Zealand made constant adjustments based on shifts in wind, current, and competitor tactics, organizations must be prepared to recalibrate their strategies based on real-time feedback.

Execution is a feedback loop, not a fixed course. Just as sailors adjust their sails, teams should pivot based on data and situational awareness, refining direction as conditions evolve.

2. Empowered Decision-Making Drives Agility
On the water, each crew member operates with the autonomy needed to respond instantly, embodying a culture of empowered decision-making.

In organizations, fostering this same autonomy—where teams understand their strategic goals and are empowered to make in-the-moment decisions—accelerates adaptability and responsiveness, leading to more effective, smarter execution.

3. Strategy and Execution are Interdependent
Smarter Execution reminds us that strategy and execution should be a dynamic, reciprocal loop.

Just as the yacht’s crew receives immediate feedback from each action taken, organizations should see execution as a vital input for strategic recalibration.

This interplay is where smarter execution truly takes root, ensuring that the journey toward any goal is as fluid as it is focused.

Closing thoughts

The 37th America’s Cup showed us that winning requires more than a strong plan—it demands continuous learning, flexibility, and resilience. Kudos to the entire Emirates Team New Zealand team.

In business, as in yacht racing, success depends on our ability to navigate shifting conditions with a blend of foresight and adaptability.

Let’s all take a page from these elite sailors and strive for smarter execution.