Olympic sailor, Sir Ben Ainslie, has confirmed that his INEOS TEAM UK will compete in the next America’s Cup - and it could be based on the Isle of Wight.
The America’s Cup was first contested in 1851 in Cowes, organised by the Royal Yacht Squadron, which is understood to have put forward a bid to host the prestigious event - likely to be in 2022 or 2023.
In addition, INEOS have confirmed they will continue to back Sir Ben’s team to win sports oldest international trophy.
It will be the first time a British team has competed in three consecutive Cup cycles since Sir Thomas Lipton and the Royal Ulster YC bids between 1899 to 1930.
Sir Ben, who is INEOS TEAM UK Skipper and Team Principal, said:
“INEOS TEAM UK are committed to working alongside Emirates Team New Zealand and our respective yacht clubs to continue the development of this historic event.
"The introduction of the AC75 class of yacht has proven to be a transformative moment in the history of the America’s Cup and will be the bedrock of a really bright future.”
Bertie Bicket, Chairman of Royal Yacht Squadron Racing, who has been in Auckland, New Zealand for the duration of the 36th America’s Cup said:
“We are delighted to be embarking on our third successive America’s Cup challenge with Sir Ben Ainslie and INEOS, as the Challenging Yacht Club for the 37th America’s Cup.
"We look forward to working with all parties and will strive to continue the tradition and history of this great sporting event.”
Sir Ben lives on the Isle of Wight, with his sailing headquarters based in Portsmouth.
A decision on the location of the next America's Cup is expected in six months.
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Isle of Wight MP, Bob Seely, said:
“This is more encouraging news. New Zealand still have 90 days to object. This is not definite but clearly it is a very strong statement of intent.
“I want to thank Bertie Bicket for his brilliant work representing the Island and Islander Ben Ainslie for his intentions to centre the next America’s Cup on the Isle of Wight.
“I’m in touch with the Sports Minister and relevant Secretary of State to make them aware that the America’s Cup could be coming home to the Isle of Wight next year.
“I look forward to working with the Royal Yacht Squadron, INEOS TEAM UK, the Isle of Wight Council and other interested parties to do what we can to bring this significant event to the Island and to try to get as much benefit out of it as possible for as much of the Island as possible.”
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