APBA Gold Cup Returns to Madison for Historic 116th Running

By: Dana Potts | Marketing Director | Jul 5, 2026

Photo: APBA

MADISON, Ind. — One of the most prestigious trophies in all of motorsports is returning to the banks of the Ohio River as the American Power Boat Association (APBA) Gold Cup comes back to Madison during the 2026 Madison Regatta, July 3-5.

The 116th running of the APBA Gold Cup will bring the world's fastest hydroplanes to Madison's legendary racecourse, where generations of fans have gathered to witness one of America's most celebrated traditions in powerboat racing. First contested in 1904, the Gold Cup is recognized as the oldest active trophy in motorsports and remains the ultimate prize in unlimited hydroplane competition.

For more than 100 years, the APBA Gold Cup has stood as the premier championship in American powerboat racing. Throughout its history, the event has crowned many of the sport's greatest champions and has been contested on some of the nation's most iconic waterways. While the trophy dates to 1904, interruptions during wartime and other circumstances mean the 2026 event marks the 116 running of the historic race.

The 2026 event will be held in conjunction with the 76th Madison Regatta, continuing a partnership between the APBA, H1 Unlimited Hydroplane Racing Series, and the Madison Regatta organization. The weekend will feature thrilling competition among H1 Unlimited hydroplanes, along with Grand Prix and Inboard racing classes, creating three days of high-speed action on the Ohio River.

Madison's connection to the Gold Cup runs deep. The city has hosted the prestigious event multiple times throughout its history and is widely regarded as one of the spiritual homes of hydroplane racing. The community-owned Miss Madison Racing Team famously captured the Gold Cup in 1971 before a hometown crowd, cementing Madison's place in racing lore and helping inspire the 2005 motion picture "Madison."

Few venues are more fitting for the return of the Gold Cup than Madison. The city's picturesque Ohio River racecourse, passionate fan base, and deep racing heritage have made it one of the most respected stops on the hydroplane circuit for generations.

For race fans, competitors, and visitors alike, the return of the Gold Cup represents more than a championship event. It is a celebration of tradition, community pride, and a racing heritage that spans more than a century.

As thousands of spectators descend upon Madison for Independence Day weekend, the city will once again serve as the center of the hydroplane racing world. The combination of a historic racecourse, passionate fans, and the sport's most coveted trophy promises another unforgettable chapter in the story of the APBA Gold Cup.

Event Details:• Event: 122nd Running of the APBA Gold Cup• Dates: July 3-5, 2026• Location: Ohio River, Madison, Indiana• Host Event: 76th Madison Regatta• Racing Classes: H1 Unlimited, Grand Prix, Inboard Hydroplanes, Jersey Speed Skiffs

Livestream: H1 Unlimited Youtube Channel

For additional information, schedules, tickets, and event updates, visit the Madison Regatta website www.madisonregatta.com

About the APBA Gold Cup

Established in 1904, the APBA Gold Cup is the oldest active trophy in motorsports and is considered the premier championship in American hydroplane racing. For more than a century, the Gold Cup has represented excellence in powerboat competition, attracting the sport's top teams, drivers, and champions. The 2026 event marks the 122nd running of the historic race and continues a legacy that has helped define hydroplane racing in North America.

APBA Gold Cup Returns to Madison for Historic 116th Running

Latest Headlines