Skippers expect intense racing in Jeddah at 37th America’s Cup

JEDDAH: Skippers of participating teams at the second preliminary regatta of the 37th America’s Cup praised the warm welcome they have received from Saudi Arabia since their arrival and assured that the country is capable of hosting such a race with its facilities and infrastructure.

Their remarks came during a press conference held at the Jeddah Yacht Club on Wednesday ahead of the first official day of the regatta.

Ahead of the press conference, Samia Bagdady, the chief executive of the Saudi Sailing Federation, took the stage and told the press that having an event like America’s Cup with its advanced technology and the highest performing athletes is the best way to inspire children to be what they can be in sailing.

She said: “We’re super excited, and it is in line with the Kingdom’s 2030 sporting vision to increase participation numbers and local awareness. It’s the first time in the America’s Cup history that the oldest event in international sport comes to the Red Sea, and we are very excited to showcase what the Red Sea has to offer for sailing.”

Grant Dalton, CEO of America’s Cup Events, told Arab News that all was set for the race and that he was looking forward to the amazing event, held in Saudi Arabia for the first time.

With the skippers on the stage, Peter Burling, skipper of Emirates Team New Zealand, spoke of the Kiwi approach saying: “Amazing regatta, incredibly excited to be back out sailing, new town, new place … We want the racing to be close … As a sailor, you want to be tested. We go in with an aggressive mindset, ready to perform.”

Sir Ben Ainslie spoke on behalf of the INEOS Britannia team, saying: “We’re focused hard on upping our game.”

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