Russell Coutts & Paul Cayard have finally launched their World Sailing League. Rumours of this event have been around for at least the last couple of years if not more, but apparently the "time is right" to launch the event.
The format is fleet racing in 70ft one design catamarans. Fleet racing will appeal to the general public more than match racing, and catamarans will potentially be more exciting that monohulls. Although the Volvo 70 footage seen in the last year has been pretty good!
One of the best features of the event is that the cost to teams will be capped at a reported 5 to 6 million euro (transport, boat lease, maintenance etc) and crew salaries will be capped as well. This feature will surely help level the playing field.
Unfortunately racing is not due to start until 2009. Now, all I here from marketing gurus is "time to market", so one has to wonder if this long lead time will cause the end of the regatta before it starts? We wait with great anticipation!
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