Key hearing in Valencia

An important hearing ahead of the 33rd America's Cp challenge in Valencia, starting next week, was held on Monday in Valencia.

The five-person International Jury met to consider five requests from Golden Gate Yacht Club, representing the challenger BMW Oracle, to ensure fair racing during the Match.

GGYC has asked the jury to consider whether: the defender can unilaterally select wind and wave limits; if mutual consent was required to select race start times; could wind detection equipment be used; could friction reduction systems be used and were the regatta rules contradictory.

GGYC spokesman Tom Ehman said: "The fact the hearing lasted from 1100 to 1730 [hours] proves that the issues being considered are significant and that the jury gave the challenger and defender full opportunity to present their cases."

International Jury chairman David Tillett said the findings would be released on Tuesday afternoon (Valencia time).

Another hearing to consider GGYC's request for redress over measurement will be held on Tuesday at 5pm.