The Amercia’s Cup, the oldest sailing race in the world which first took place around the Isle of Wight in 1851, will be returning to the Solent next year and in 2016.
Organisers of the America’s Cup World Series (ACWS) have announced that Portsmouth will host the preliminary America’s Cup series between 23-26 July 2015 and then returning to the Solent between 21-24 July 2016.
‘Team Ainslie’
The British challenger for the 35th America’s Cup, which takes place in 2017, is Ben Ainslie Racing (BAR), who previously raced for Oracle Team USA.
Sir Ben Ainslie said,
“The last ACWS was a game changer for the sport of sailing – the racing was entertaining and brought in the crowds.
“The new foiling AC45s (45ft catamarans) are going to be faster and even more exciting than the previous generation and we promise to provide an event experience like you have never seen before. Come and cheer us on.”
Jones: “Massive boost to our marine and maritime industry”
Portsmouth council leader Donna Jones said,
“The ACWS has a proven record of attracting huge spectator numbers to competing venues, and it will provide a massive boost to our marine and maritime industry and bring economic benefit to Portsmouth.”
Sources: BBC and Financial Times
Image: © Lloyd Images
