Alinghi accept Valencia as America's Cup venue

America's Cup holders Alinghi have accepted Valencia as the venue for next year's race against challengers BMW Oracle, the Swiss-based team said yesterday.

Alinghi, who sail under the colours of Societe Nautique de Geneve (SNG), had wanted to hold February's event in the United Arab Emirates and last week offered Australia as an alternative.

The two sides have been locked in a legal dispute in a New York court for more than two years over the terms of the race. BMW Oracle, who had been holding out for Valencia, sail under the Golden Gate Yacht Club (GGYC) colours.

"The America's Cup Defender, Societe Nautique de Geneve (SNG), has confirmed that it will conduct a Deed of Gift Match with GGYC in February 2010 in Valencia, which is the date and venue repeatedly requested by GGYC and previously ordered by the Court," said the statement.

"SNG has also expressed its intention to publish the 33rd America's Cup Notice of Race with immediate effect."

Alinghi, who as holders have the right to chose the venue, had originally named Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates but this was rejected by their opponents.

"While SNG confirms Valencia as the venue for the 33rd America's Cup in February 2010, the offer to GGYC of an Australian venue for the same date remains on the table until 13 November 2009 provided GGYC agrees to withdraw all legal actions," added Alinghi.

Alinghi said they had advised the court of their offer.