The Official
Website of the
International
Sailing Federation

Official Website Welcome

On October 1, 2002, nine sailing teams representing six nations will meet on Auckland's Hauraki Gulf to commence battle for sport's oldest prize - the America's Cup. These are yachting's elite sailors, the best match racers in the world.

From the United States, Italy, Great Britain, Sweden, France and Switzerland, these are the challengers. First, they must do battle among themselves in the Louis Vuitton series to decide their champion. The ultimate winner of the Louis Vuitton Cup goes on to challenge for the America's Cup itself.

Backed by some of the world's wealthiest individuals, they carry with them not only national but individual pride.
Waiting and watching their progress will be the Defenders, Team New Zealand. As the challengers engage in their gruelling rounds, Team New Zealand will be practising and preparing for their moment of destiny on February 15, 2003 when the America's Cup Match commences.

From October, the southern spring equinox can unleash strong winds and nasty waves - boat-breaking conditions. Towards the summer, the winds usually lighten off. But the Hauraki Gulf can always surprise the unwary with its fast-changing conditions.

The racing is hard and exhilarating. The stakes are high. Welcome to the world of the America's Cup.

Between now and the end of the contest, this official website will provide fans with information about the event, the syndicates, the highs and lows of their battles on the water and the on-shore festivities that surround this great regatta. Enjoy.

Sail Numbers
ACC Technical Director Ken McAlpine has just allotted sail number 80 to the
Prada syndicate.