Swiss America's Cup Challenge validated

The Swiss Challenge for the 31st America's Cup has been validated by the America's Cup Arbitration Panel. The decision was released today by Sir David Tompkins on behalf of the five man international panel.

The panel had been asked by the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron and the Swiss yacht club, the Societe Nautique de Geneve, to ratify the validity of the challenge. The RNZYS had also sought an interpretation of the Deed of Gift.

"The Panel will deliver its reasons for its decision, and its decisions on other matters raised in the application, in due course," said Sir David Tompkins in a brief written statement.

The decision has been welcomed by Peter Taylor, the Commodore of the RNZYS, who says the Swiss Challenge has now been accepted. The RNZYS as the current holder and trustee of the America's Cup, is responsible for ensuring compliance with the Deed of Gift which governs all matters relating to the historic event.

"This prompt decision from the Arbitration Panel means that we can now bank the Swiss cheque and formally acknowledge a valid challenge," said Mr Taylor.

"Now that we have this judicial interpretation of the rules, there can be no questions raised at a later date by other challengers about the eligibility of the Swiss challenge. It clears the way for a superb regatta that will be contested on the water rather than in the courts."

Mr Taylor said it was a positive outcome for the event and the Squadron was pleased to have another country represented.

5th December 2000

Peter Taylor
Commodore
Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron
Telephone (09) 378 5200

© Scoop Media