Today, ACM, Event Authority for the 33rd America's Cup, named Tom Schnackenberg as the class rule.

Competition regulations consultant for the design consultation period due to start on 15 September with current challengers, he will ensure that all views are taken into consideration in the process that will eventually lead to a new class definition to be announced on the 31 October 2007.

"We are delighted Tom is joining us to contribute actively on the writing of the new class rules", commented Michel Hodara, CEO of ACM. "Tom has an unrivaled experience and his ability to resolve conflicts and his credibility are great assets in the process".

Grant Simmer, design team coordinator for Alinghi, also explained Tom's appointment.

"Tom started working in the America's Cup in 1977 and has been involved in every Cup cycle since then, winning the Cup 3 times. He is respected as one of the smartest and most experienced technical sailors and designers in our sport".

"Tom's responsibility will be to consult and consider the input of the entered challengers and to publish the new class rule by 31st October. Tom will also work on other racing regulations related to the 33rd America's Cup. Once he has completed these tasks we look forward to welcoming Tom in the Alinghi design team".

Mike Sanderson, Team Director of TeamOrigin, also was also satisfied with this appointment.

"The choice of Tom Schnackenberg to lead this process is fantastic. Having someone of Tom's calibre available and willing to take on this important task is very fortunate for the whole America's Cup community."

The challengers, which include the Challenger of Record, Desafío Español, Team Origin, Team Shosholoza, Emirates Team New Zealand and United Internet Team Germany, will join the Defender for a series of open discussions, starting 15 September. This group will consider rule drafts leading to the new class rule which will become public, two months ahead of schedule, ensuring an 18 month period before the first race in the new class.

Schnackenberg describes his pleasure at the new appointment: "It is a huge challenge and for me that is part of the appeal. I have been intrigued by the prospect of the new rule since it was signaled after the Cup and am honoured to have been invited to participate in its inception"