Artemis Racing Boat Damaged During Tow Testing

By Artemis Racing

In preparation for sailing the Artemis Racing AC72, the team was conducting valuable structural tests afloat earlier today when damage was incurred to the front beam of the catamaran. 

Artemis Racing, stationed at Alameda Point, is the Challenger of Record for the 34th America’s Cup. Artemis Racing competes in the America’s Cup World Series, RC44 Championship Tour and Vulcain Trophy and represents the Royal Swedish Yacht Club (KSSS).

The AC72 has been hauled out of the water and the design team, led by Principal Designer Juan Kouyoumidjian, is on site to evaluate the damage. This setback will delay the Swedish team’s AC72 sailing program, but the team will be working hard to have the AC72 on the water and sailing as soon as possible.

"As a team, it is our responsibility not to launch these boats until every single box has been ticked in terms of safety and structural integrity," said Laurent Esquier, COO of Artemis Racing. "This is a key part of the due dilligence process when entering unknown territory."

"All teams are going to face setbacks, but the determinent factor will be the team that rebounds the best," said team CEO Paul Cayard.