The 32nd America's Cup is over for Areva Challenge, but the French are already focused on the next campaign.

"Now, what is important is to capitalize on what we have just accomplished", said Stéphane Kandler, CEO of Areva Challenge. "Everyone realizes that it is necessary to continue to work between the Cups. When I look at the current rankings of the Louis Vuitton Cup, I see three leaders who formed their teams early, had large budgets, and have one or two campaigns under their belts".

"It is now necessary to preserve the key elements of this group. One also needs a stronger budget to finish in the top four", he added, "We have set up a platform which shows good qualities, now we just need complimentary experience and external contributions. If one wants to do all that, it is necessary to have the means and to present an ambitious project. It is the perfect moment to set it up."

The plan is to have a two boat programme and to have the money early enough to be well prepared and to attract good people. Experience and skill go hand-in-hand with the money.

"This is why the budget should at least be double", Kandler said. "Two boats also means two crews. With that addition, it is not the same organization any longer and must be reinforced with some external elements".

"We must search for talented personnel to gain the experience we need. There are already teams who have put their boats up for sale. To purchase an additional boat would quickly make it possible for us to evolve and progress".

Meanwhile, Stéphane Kandler seems have changed his mind about nationality. If the Areva Challenge 2007 was presented as an international team (even if some three-quarters of the squad are French), the new campaign should be more "tricolore".

"There are several Frenchmen who are currently with other campaigns, including Bertrand Pacé (BMW Oracle Racing), Philippe Presti (Luna Rossa Challenge), and Bernard Labro (Alinghi), just to name a few", Kandler said. "They are numerous. It interests us to make a French team with people who have such great experience".

First and foremost, the French Team should secure the money to maintain momentum. That's the reason why the Areva press notice about the next campaign, which should be published on Monday, is very awaited by the French fans.