BMW Oracle blasts Alinghi for court battle

Dubai: The wheel has turned a full circle with Challenger BMW Oracle Racing now blasting defender Alinghi for continuing the court battles surrounding the hosting of the 33rd America's Cup in February next year.

A statement from Tom Ehman, spokesperson of the Golden Gate Yacht Club, said that the San Diego-based challenger is "disappointed that defender Alinghi has sought to derail the America's Cup once again."

"In light of Justice Kornreich's clear ruling last week, this appeal is unwarranted and without merit," Ehman has charged.

Last Friday, Justice Shirley Kornreich decided that, in accordance with the Deed of Gift, a February match for the America's Cup cannot be held in the northern hemisphere other than in Valencia, a venue previously agreed by both the defender and challenger.

"The Spanish host of the 2007 America's Cup Match remains the best choice for everyone. Its facilities and infrastructure are proven and ready. Both teams maintain their permanent bases in the Port America's Cup. The city is ready to welcome the America's Cup back," Ehman has pointed out.