The first three pre-regattas of the 32nd America's Cup will be held between September and October 2004 at two different locations in the fleet race and match race
It all starts in Marseille from 5 to 11 September, followed by two regattas in Valencia from 5 to 12 October and 14 to 17 October. The three French syndicates Le Défi, K-Challenge and Team France, the Italians from the Clan Des Team syndicate as well as Oracle BMW Racing and the Cup defender Alinghi want to take part. Several other teams have also expressed their interest. The Italian fashion group Louis Vuitton will lend its name to the first three regattas.
Fleet and match races will be sailed off Marseille, the first regatta off Valencia in the match race, the second in the fleet race. The points earned will count towards the pairings for the 2006 Louis Vuitton Cup, in which Alinghi's challenger will be determined.
Lars Bolle
Chief Editor Digital
