Alinghi Red Bull Racing’s first AC40 – delivered to the team base in Barcelona at the end of January – was christened today. This second boat marks the start of a new phase of training towards the 2024 America’s Cup
Barcelona, 13 February 2023 – Smaller, simpler, but just as sleek and impressive as the AC75, Alinghi Red Bull Racing’s first AC40 was christened today by Lourdes Millet, Alinghi Red Bull Racing’s General Counsel. The boat had been due to arrive at the end of 2022 but was delayed to make changes to the structure following an assessment of damage to the Emirates Team New Zealand AC40 after a capsize. “It was worth the wait to receive the boat with the modifications,” said Diego Torrado, the AC40 Boat Captain.
Still located in a temporary base in Barcelona’s Port Vell until the final base becomes available this summer, the team has set up a tent to house the AC40 #1. “We are excited to be sailing our second boat. Next to the AC75, it looks like a toy, but with all the technology of its big sister,” said Arnaud Psarofaghis, Driving Group.
The 40-foot one-design – mandatory for all America’s Cup teams according to the Protocol – will be the boat used in the first two pre-regattas, and the Youth & Women’s America’s Cup events. For the team, it is a ticket to more training; the delivery of the AC40 marks the start of a new two-boat training phase (this will increase to three later in the year with the arrival of the second AC40). With the launch and maintenance likely to be much simpler, the sailors will be able to continue training on the AC40 when the AC75 is out of the water for maintenance.
The shore team is finalising preparations, and the AC40 maiden sail is scheduled over the next few days.
