America's Cup Preparations Underway

There are less than 50 days to go before one of the most prestigious and grueling competitions in sport, with six nations preparing to compete in the 35th America's Cup in Bermuda. All sights are on the coveted trophy and the gloves are off! 

All six teams will compete in two round robins for the qualifiers starting on 26 May. After eight days of racing, one team will then be eliminated on 3 June.

The current America's Cup defender, Oracle Team USA, will step aside as the remaining four teams race in the Louis Vuitton America's Cup Challenger Playoffs. One will remain as the teams battle it out to become the one America's Cup Challenger. The winning team will go on to face Oracle Team USA in the America's Cup Finals presented by Louis Vuitton, which take place over two consecutive weekends, 17-18 June and 24-25 June. 

Over the last few weeks, in a bid to test their race boats and keep an eye on the competition, the teams have been practicing, comparing configurations, handling, speeds and foiling, looking for the winning formula to get them over the finish line first. 

But with cutting edge technology it's not always plain sailing. Swedish challengers Artemis Racing dropped a wingsail and suffered serious damage to their test boat while training last week, although all crew members were unharmed and their campaign is unhindered. Meanwhile Oracle Team USA capsized in training, although there was no damage to the boat or crew. 

America's Cup Race Village due for completion this month:

As ever, being the front runner can take its toll psychologically, but Oracle Team USA is determined to hang onto the trophy!

For merchandise you can visit the America's Cup Online Shop.

Or if you want to experience the excitement first hand, there's still time to join us in Bermuda as a VIP guest with Britannia Hospitality.

Full details can be found on Britannia Hospitality's website or please contact us directly:

Tel: +44 (0) 7810 003 927
Email: charlotte@originsportsgroup.com