VIDEO: Can France win America’s Cup?

The French Orient Express Racing Team were the last to enter the 37th America’s Cup and last to get onto the water. But, as their head man Stephan Kandler and CEO Bruno Dubois explained in this interview with Matthew Sheahan, they are not here simply to make up the numbers.

Both have considerable experience in the Cup and in other grand prix classes. Kandler was the man behind the French K-Challenge campaign back in 2007 while Dubois was in charge when Dongfeng Race Team won the 2017-18 Volvo Ocean Race.

However, with so little current Cup experience in this new fast-moving foiling world, it would be easy to dismiss this late campaign, but this team has already proven they can play this game.

Following the publication of the AC37 Protocol and AC75 Class Rule on November 17, 2021, the AC75 Class Rule and AC Technical Regulations were finalized on March 17, 2022. The entry period opened December 1, 2021 and runs until July 31, 2022, but late entries for the 37th America’s Cup may be accepted until May 31, 2023. The Defender was to announce the Match Venue on September 17, 2021 but postponed the venue reveal, confirming it would be Barcelona on March 30, 2022. The 37th America’s Cup begins October 12, 2024.

Teams revealed to challenge defender Emirates Team New Zealand (NZL):
• INEOS Britannia (GBR)
• Alinghi Red Bull Racing (SUI)
• Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli Team (ITA)
• NYYC American Magic (USA)
• Orient Express Racing Team (FRA)

2023-24 Preliminary Regattas
September 14-17, 2023 (AC40): Vilanova i la Geltrú, Spain
November 30-December 2 (AC40): Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
August 2024 (AC75): Barcelona, Spain

2024 America’s Cup
August 29-October 7: Challenger Selection Series
October 12 – ?: 37th Match (Best of 13)

Additionally, 12 teams will compete in the 2024 Youth & Women’s America’s Cup.

Noticeboard: https://ac37noticeboard.acofficials.org/
Additional details: www.americascup.com/en/home