The Royal Cape Yacht Club and its Team Shosholoza has lodged its challenge for the 33rd America’s Cup with the Société Nautique de Genève, the Defending yacht club.

Team Shosholoza founder and managing director Captain Salvatore Sarno confirmed that he has sent a Notice of Entry and submitted the necessary paperwork and fee as outlined in the Protocol for the 33rd America’s Cup.

Captain Sarno’s Team Shosholoza was a novice team in the recently concluded 32nd America’s Cup in Valencia and the first ever challenge from Africa.

The rookies turned in an inspiring performance, finishing 7th among the 11 challenging teams, and earning the nickname the ‘soul of sailing’ for their commitment and effort on and off the water.

"We showed what novices can achieve," said Captain Sarno. "We earned the respect of our competitors by punching way above our weight and our indomitable spirit captivated hearts and inspired millions around the world".

"Now we want to do another campaign", he added. "It would be silly not to. We have acquired a lot of knowledge; our crew have achieved a level close to the best in the world. We are hungry to get better results! We want to win."

Shosholoza joins the Challenger of Record, Desafío Español and the Defender Alinghi, as the first confirmed participants in the 33rd America’s Cup.