Naples tourism surge faces controversy over America's Cup volunteers

Naples is anticipating a significant tourism surge in September, with 2.2 million visitors expected. A major driver is the 38th Louis Vuitton America's Cup, which is projected to attract 600,000 visitors during its preliminary regattas between September 25 and 27. Government and local estimates suggest the event could generate a long-term economic impact of 1.2 billion euros and create 11,000 jobs.

However, the event has sparked social and political controversy regarding the “Volunteer Program.” The Movimento Libero e Autonomo delle Scuole di Formazione Autofinanziate, led by Nicola Troisi, has criticized the initiative for requiring ten consecutive days of unpaid work, with participants expected to cover their own travel and accommodation costs. The group has raised concerns that promised professional training and employment opportunities for local youth are being replaced by unpaid labor.