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The America's Cup is a sailing race fought between nations every five years with the winning country hosting the next competition. The 2003 America's Cup was won by the Swiss team. However, as Switzerland is landlocked an alternate venue for the America's Cup in 2007 had to be selected. Valencia was chosen due to its reliable weather conditions and (as one of Europe's fastest growing cities) its dynamic outlook impressed the race organisers. Much investment has been put into creating infrastructure and facilities for competitors, spectators and press. Over a million spectators are expected to visit the city. HistoryThe America's Cup is the oldest active trophy in sport: 45 years older than the modern Olympics and 20 years older than the English FA Cup. Named after the first winning vessel, America, which won the original race around the Isle of White on 22 August 1851, the first 132 years of its existence every regatta was won by America, the longest sporting winning streak in history! The race tests all aspects of sailing, boat and sail design, and the aptitude of the sailors and the crew. The winner's trophy is known by the sailing fraternity as Auld Mug. This is the first time since 1851 that the race will be staged in Europe. Dates 2007Although the cup is fought for every five years there are Louis Vuitton regattas held in the intervening years to decide which team will compete against the defenders in the America's Cup match. Racing took place over three months from April to July 2007. The Louis Vuitton qualifying competitions, known as acts, began in Marseille in 2004 and the competitors travelled around Europe to Italy, Sweden and Valencia in preparation for the 2007 regattas. There was a major development of Valencia's historical port to accommodate the America's Cup and all of the racing took place near to the shore providing spectators with a good view of proceedings. Further Information
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