Barcelona, 24 August 2024 — In a surprising turn of events, French team Orient Express Racing Team withdrew from the America’s Cup race just moments before the start, citing concerns over the need to “manage wear on their boat.” Shortly after, the French challenger team issued a statement: “Orient Express Racing Team has notified the race directors that they will not participate in today’s race due to a technical issue with flight control, discovered just before the start. This technical problem means that the French AC75 has to be taken out of the water and repaired in the yard.”
After their withdrawal, controversy arose as rumours circulated that (unnamed) members of the sailing community and some competing teams questioned the sportsmanship of the Orient Express Racing Team. Concerns were sparked by the timing of their exit, leading some to speculate that the technical issue cited might not have been the only reason for their decision.
The race had been eagerly anticipated. Both teams were set to compete in identical boats, making the outcome particularly exciting for spectators.
In the scheme of the entire competition, the withdrawal of the Orient Express Racing Team may not be significant. But French skipper, Quentin Delapierre, has added: “… the next few days are really, really important for us so we want to make sure the boat is in good shape.”
