Alinghi propose Australia to host next America's Cup

America's Cup holders Alinghi have proposed Australia to host the next edition of yachting's top race in February in a bid to end the prolonged legal battle between the Swiss defenders and California-based challenger BMW Oracle.

A New York judge ruled last month the race could not be held in Alinghi's chosen venue of Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates, ruling it must be staged in the southern hemisphere or in Valencia which hosted the 2007 edition.

Alinghi have appealed against the decision which is due to be heard in New York today.

"Societe Nautique de Geneve (SNG), the 33rd America's Cup defending yacht club, has proposed an alternative venue to the American challenger in a bid to end their continued litigation and return the Cup to the water," Alinghi said in a statement yesterday.

"While the Defender's first choice for the Deed of Gift Match is Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates, in order to achieve a Match in February SNG proposes to stage the 33rd America's Cup on the east coast of Australia, in the Southern Hemisphere, in compliance with the Deed of Gift.

"This is a venue that should be acceptable to both teams if, as expressed publicly, the true intention of BMW Oracle is to race for the America's Cup on the water."

Alinghi said a specific venue will be announced promptly should BMW accept their offer and "cease their legal strategy".

Alinghi and BMW Oracle have been locked in a more than two-year legal battle over terms of the 33rd edition of the race. Alinghi, as defending champion, is entitled to name the site for the next race so long as it fits within cup rules.