The successful course set in 2002 is to be built upon with the new partnership of BMW and Oracle Racing. BMW has now entered into a new partnership until 2007, thereby cementing its long-term commitment to professional yacht racing.

The partnership was first forged in summer 2002 when Team Oracle Racing, which was founded in 2000, was renamed and the pairing together entered the Louis Vuitton Cup 2002/03.

The renewed attempt to win the most prized sailing trophy in the world in Valencia in 2007 will therefore be mounted through the tried and tested partnership. The team has already been making intensive preparations for the 32nd America’s Cup since last summer, thereby setting an early course for a successful campaign.

"This is a decision that points the way ahead", said Chris Dickson, CEO and helmsman of Oracle BMW Racing. "Our team is extremely pleased that the extensive commitment of BMW has already been confirmed at this stage".

"From a sporting perspective, this enables us to forge ahead with what, to date, has been a very successful performance at international level."

In the long lead-up to achieving their ambitious goals, BMW will in future contribute even more expertise to the team. Increased technology input on the part of BMW, an expanded personnel contingent, and experts from the automotive concern have been actively incorporated throughout the new challenge’s entire development process.

In terms of body making – an area in which BMW has been among the forerunners for many years– know-how is being transferred to yacht racing. Moreover, BMW will provide its sports marketing expertise to Oracle BMW Racing.

Following the contract signing in Munich, Michael Ganal, Member of the Board of Management, BMW AG, explained the future collaboration.

"This new partnership demonstrates our firm intention to continue pursuing our successful three-pillar strategy. Alongside golf and Formula 1, yacht racing has become firmly established as a major aspect of our sporting portfolio".

"BMW is also being publicly recognized in connection with top-level sailing. Throughout the lead-up to the America’s Cup 2007 in Valencia, BMW will expand its position as a reliable partner in the Oracle BMW Racing team and will also increasingly contribute its multifaceted know-how.”