The Swiss syndicate has reduced the number of possible venues for the next America's Cup. After Alinghi's victory, there was wild speculation about the next venue. Even Singapore came up for discussion.
A total of around 60 locations have applied to host the event. The Swiss are currently taking a closer look at eight applicants. They are Barcelona, Lisbon, Palma de Mallorca, Valencia, Marseille, Naples, Porto Cervo in Sardinia and Elba. The representatives of these locations are now expected to provide extensive information, particularly in the areas of weather and infrastructure.
AC Management Ltd., which has been commissioned with the organisation, wants to reduce the number of applicants to four by May. The next elimination round will then take place in order to be able to present the venue for the 32nd America's Cup before 15 December.
Designer Rolf Vrolijk from Hamburg commented in an unofficial statement: "Ernesto Bertarelli does not want to go down in history as the man who brought the trophy to Europe, but as the one who was able to turn the event into a fair and great competition."
For your information: The Swiss syndicate, as the defender, has the right to determine the next venue. Domestic waters such as Lake Geneva are cancelled, as the Cup regulations stipulate that the regatta must be held on open waters.
Fridtjof Gunkel
Deputy Chief Editor YACHT
