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America's Cup holders Alinghi have accepted Valencia as the
venue for next year's race against challengers BMW Oracle, the
Swiss-based team said on Wednesday.
Alinghi, who sail under the colours of Societe Nautique de Geneve
(SNG), had wanted to hold February's event in the United Arab
Emirates and last week offered Australia as an alternative.
The two sides have been locked in a legal dispute in a New York
court for more than two years over the terms of the race.
BMW Oracle, who had been holding out for Valencia, which hosted the
2007 edition, sail under the Golden Gate Yacht Club (GGYC)
colours.
"The America's Cup defender, Societe Nautique de Geneve, has
confirmed it will conduct a Deed of Gift Match with GGYC in
February 2010 in Valencia, which is the date and venue repeatedly
requested by GGYC and previously ordered by the Court," said the
statement.
"SNG has also expressed its intention to publish the 33rd America's
Cup Notice of Race with immediate effect."
Alinghi, who as holders have the right to choose the venue, had
originally named Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates but
this was rejected by their opponents and a New York judge last
month ruled the next edition must be held in the southern
hemisphere, or Valencia as the only exception.
"While SNG confirms Valencia as the venue for the 33rd America's
Cup in February 2010, the offer to GGYC of an Australian venue for
the same date remains on the table until 13 November 2009 provided
GGYC agrees to withdraw all legal actions," added Alinghi.
GGYC welcomed Alinghi's announcement.
"We're very pleased to see SNG/Alinghi have finally agreed with us
that Valencia in February is the correct venue to hold the 33rd
America's Cup," spokesman Tom Ehman said in a statement.
