After days of rumour the official existence of a new French Syndicate for the 32nd America's Cup was confirmed today in Marseille.

Sud Challenge, the fifth french challenger for the 32nd Cup is leaded by the French skipper Alain Fédensieu, a former member of the K-Challenge (he was head of logistics and "Sport Consultant").

"In Contact with executives of French multinationals" according to Fédensieu, the new team has its roots in Marseille but not the only budget.

As the sailing world prepares for the first 2007 America's Cup preliminary races, scheduled to begin this September in Marseille, Sud Challenge hopes to be able to be part of it.

A press conference is scheduled for Wednesday, May 12, to launch a new project of French syndicate for the 32nd America's Cup.

Christened Grand Sud Challenge, the new team should to be leaded by Alain Fédensieu who was member of the K-Challenge (he was head of logistics and "Sport Consultant").

Winner of the 1994 Tour de France à la Voile (15 participations in the event), Alain Fédensieu was part of the Corum Sailing Team (with Pierre Mas, Bertrand Pacé and Luc Gelluseau) which have represented the French International keelboat scene for several years.

Alain Fédensieu's main achievements:

1989 : Fun World Champion
1991 : Winner of the Offshore World Championship
1991 : Crew member of the Corum Sailing Team, winner of the Admiral's Cup
1994 : Winner of the Tour de France à la voile
2002 : Winner of the One Ton Cup (IC 45 World Championship)