Having made it to the final stage of the America’s Cup bidding process, Bermuda is set to host an America’s Cup World Series racing event regardless of the outcome of the final venue selection, the Government announced this evening.
A Government spokesperson said, ‘As the final America’s Cup host venue selection process draws closer, the Bermuda Team responsible for Bermuda’s bid to host the America’s Cup in 2017 provided a brief progress report to date.
“Last month, the America’s Cup Event Authority [ACEA] announced that the decision was down to either Bermuda or San Diego to host the premier sailing event.
“It has now been confirmed that having made it to the final stage of the bidding process, the Island is set to host an America’s Cup World Series racing event regardless of the outcome of the final venue selection.
“Minister of Education & Economic Development, Dr. Grant Gibbons reported that he and members of the local Bermuda America’s Cup organizing team met in New York with senior representatives of the ACEA to discuss Bermuda’s bid to host the America’s Cup finals in 2017 and at least one World Series Race in 2015 and/or 2016.
“The meeting reviewed a number of organizational and logistical issues that Bermuda will need to address in order to be able to accommodate not only the racing teams, but also technical support, sponsors, media and the large influx of visitors wishing to view the event on island over the 2015 to 2017 period. Infrastructure requirements and site preparation for the Hamilton Waterfront, Morgan’s Point and Dockyard were also considered during the meeting.
“Further discussions and meetings with the ACEA, the Bermuda America’s Cup organizing team and Government will take place over the next few weeks in order to ensure that Bermuda’s bid to host the Finals in 2017 is robust and competitive.”
Minister Gibbons said, “I was very pleased with the meetings and the strong working relationship established with the ACEA, and I’m looking forward to further discussions over the next few weeks as more details are resolved. I feel quite confident that Bermuda will not only present a strong bid, but will be seen as the optimum location for the AC35 finals in 2017.”
“Meanwhile, the Minister also took the opportunity to address media reports of late indicating some displeasure by some in the international sailing community about Bermuda or San Diego being possible host venues,” added the spokesperson.
“In fact, Minister Gibbons shared that recently, there has been encouraging feedback received from the challenging teams expressing support for either venue as the next America’s Cup destination.”
Minister Gibbons said, “Key sailing teams which will be participating in the upcoming America’s Cup have confirmed their full support of the event, regardless which host venue is selected.
“These entities, from the teams to the organizing committees have stated that they are truly focused on ensuring a successful America’s Cup, and that is where Bermuda’s focus should be as well.
“I cannot emphasize enough – the America’s Cup has the potential to be an historic moment for us. The opportunities in terms of stimulating our economy and creating jobs are tremendous, and if we are to be successful we will need the full support of everyone on the Island, both during this final selection period and through 2017.”
It is anticipated that a final decision on which venue will host the America’s Cup Finals will be determined in the fall by the ACEA.
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