Victory Challenge began with two-boat training with SWE 63 and SWE 73 off the growing skyline of Jumeriah Beach, with the spectacular Burj Al Arab, which dominates the coastline, in the background.

"The sea breeze was perfect, just what we were hoping for," said Magnus Holmberg, Helmsman and skipper of Victory Challenge. "It is just fantastic to be here and I am grateful that all of the complicated logistical operation with relocalising us has gone so smoothly".

The historic weather data is unequivocal; in January there are few days when it is possible to carry out high-quality sailing training in Spanish waters. That is why the America’s Cup defender, Alinghi, has also situated its winter training in Dubai.

Magnus Holmberg today took the helm of SWE 63, which was the first to leave Victory Challenge’s temporary base at Jumeirah Beach. SWE 73 followed, with Mattias Rahm as helmsman.

"I am unbelievably pleased that we have this opportunity to hold winter training in Dubai, it gives us the chance of so many extra high-quality sailing days, which I am sure will be very valuable to us when the Louis Vuitton Cup starts," said Magnus Holmberg.

There are only three and a half months remaining until then.

Over the next few weeks, while SWE 96 is transported to Valencia and made ready to sail at Victory Challenge’s base there, there will concentrated two-boat training in Dubai with SWE 63 and SWE 73.