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The America's Cup Preliminary Regatta heads to Jeddah on Saudi’s Red Sea coast this month, in partnership with the Neom development group.
23 November 2023
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The America’s Cup Preliminary Regatta Jeddah – a sailing event taking place on the Saudi Red Sea coast this month – has partnered with Neom, the regional development taking shape in northwest Saudi Arabia.
The America’s Cup Preliminary Regatta Jeddah, presented by Neom, takes place from 29 November to 2 December 2023 at Jeddah Yacht Club a Marina, marking the first event of its kind in the Kingdom.
The world’s leading sailors will race in foiling AC40 yachts with teams from six countries: New Zealand, the UK, Switzerland, Italy, the USA and France.
Organisers say the new event will inspire the next generation of Saudis to experience sailing, kite surfing and other watersports.
It will also showcase professional sport to young Saudis and demonstrate to the world’s sailing community the spectacular waters of the Red Sea.
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“Neom embraces human progress and innovation, as does the America’s Cup,” says Jan Paterson, managing director of Neom Sport. “It’s hugely exciting to partner with an event that shares these aims and supports our aspiration to inspire participation. Sailing is a key sport for experiences and events.
“Neom is a home for bold ambition, a guiding principle that runs deep through the America’s Cup, and we’re delighted to be partnering together on the Preliminary Regatta, the first event of its kind in Saudi Arabia.”
Grant Dalton, CEO of America’s Cup Events, adds: “The America’s Cup is the oldest sporting competition dating back to 1851 and, as sailors, we are incredibly proud of the cup’s history.
But, more importantly, the America’s Cup is also renowned for its innovative thinking, cutting-edge design technology and pioneering spirit. It is this pioneering spirit that brings us to Jeddah and makes this partnership with Neom so important and so relevant.
“The America’s Cup Preliminary Regatta at Jeddah is all about showcasing this wonderful sport to new people and inspiring them to get involved.
“This region is the future of sport, and we firmly believe that sailing must be a part of it. The can-do attitude of the people of Saudi Arabia and the pioneering spirit of the team at Neom fill me with excitement.”
Samia Bagdady, CEO of Saudi Sailing Federation, says: “The America’s Cup Preliminary Regatta Jeddah will help us accelerate the growth of water sports in Saudi Arabia.
“We want more people to experience sailing, kite surfing, wing foiling and other watersports, and we want young people to aspire to compete for Saudi Arabia in the Olympics and Paralympic Games.
“The pioneering spirit of both America’s Cup and Neom will help us demonstrate that sailing is relevant to young people who are driven by sport, healthy lifestyles and technical innovation.”
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