The finale of the poker game for the 37th America's Cup: Barcelona in play: Spain has two out of four chances

The Kiwis are making it exciting, although the decision has probably already been made. The sailing world is still waiting for the venue for the 37th America's Cup to be announced. Whilst the defenders at home are repeatedly trying to bring Auckland's native Hauraki Gulf into play, the list of candidates has apparently narrowed down to four. The Spanish venues of Barcelona and Málaga are being discussed. Cork in Ireland and Jeddah in Saudi Arabia are also officially still in the running.

Spanish media are now reporting that the government of Catalonia has thrown its weight behind the port metropolis of Barcelona. This was first reported by the Spanish daily newspaper "La Vanguardia". This was later confirmed by the Catalan news agency ACN. Behind the apparently powerful campaign is a joint initiative by the authorities and the business community. The city council, the Catalan government and the district authority of Barcelona (Diputació de Barcelona) are working side by side with Barcelona Global, a private and non-profit organisation that seeks the involvement of companies. Neither Barcelona nor the other candidates will have to wait long for the official decision, as the New Zealand defenders and holders of the hosting rights want to announce the secret of the upcoming stage for the 37th America's Cup in six days by 31 March at the latest.

The boss was recently on a European tour: Grant Dalton met with the European bidders and visited the potential venues. The decision is likely to have already been made behind the scenes a few days before the announcement.

La Vanguradia has now reported: "The government has announced (...) that it is authorising the Ministry of Economy and Employment to take all necessary measures to promote the Catalan capital's bid to win this event." In addition, it said: "The government is enormously interested in this issue, as it considers, above all, that this represents an international projection for both the city and Catalonia and a boost for the recovery of the tourism sector." According to the New Zealand Herald newspaper, support for the bid also came from Barcelona's mayor Ada Colau, who said: "The city has the infrastructure, the climate and the experience to be the best venue." The self-confident statements a few days before the decision are strong indications of Barcelona's good chances, while it has become quieter around the other candidates. One thing is certain: Barcelona can organise major sailing events and loves sailing. The Olympic sailing regatta was held here in 1992. Renowned professional series and regatta highlights also keep coming to the vibrant Mediterranean sailing paradise. With around seven million tourists a year, Barcelona is one of the three most visited cities in Europe in "normal" non-pandemic times.