Before the identity of the
host city was made known, Michel Bonnefous , the Chief
Executive Officer of AC Management, announced that
Louis Vuitton would be the principal partner of the
32nd America's Cup, continuing a 20-year relationship
between the luxury goods maker, and the world's most
prestigious sailing race.
For the first time, Louis Vuitton will be the principal
partner for the America's Cup Match, in addition to
the pre-regattas, and the Challenger races. Louis
Vuitton Watches will be the Official Timer for all
events, and the Louis Vuitton Cup will be awarded
to the winner of the Challenger Selection Series.
Michel Bonnefous continued the ceremony by speaking
about many of the new elements that will be a part
of the 32nd America’s Cup, including a full programme
of racing beginning in September 2004.
2004
Early Feb : Teams meet in Valencia
March : Dates and venues for the 2004 pre-regattas
to be confirmed
19-27 June: Newport, RI regatta. This will be
a promotional regatta similar to the Moët
Cup and does not comprise part of the AC pre-regatta
series.
The first pre-regatta will be held in Valencia
in September, 2004.
Two more events will follow that year (before
the end of October). Michel Bonnefous said each
of the three final Host City candidates will
be offered one of these events.
2005
Three events that year (The final program will
be known in the fall of 2004).
The first in Valencia in May or July.
The second "in the north of Europe"
where the future challengers can "show" their
crew as well as the Cup in their countries.
The third could be held in the USA.
2006
Two events in Valencia that year (for about
fifteen days).
A demonstration pre-regatta could be organized
in a place still to be decided.
2007
3 April: Unveiling of challengers and the defenders.
Skirts covering underbodies are permitted until
this date.
4-7 April: Fleet race regatta in Valencia. One
of the new yachts must be used for this race.
16 April: Louis Vuitton Cup challenger series
begins for two months
