Portsmouth to host preparation events for America's Cup

America's Cup organisers have confirmed that Portsmouth will host two preparation events for the 35th contest, which will be held in 2017.

The America's Cup World Series races will welcome all six teams, including Sir Ben Ainslie's British side, to take part in one of 10 regattas taking place globally in the run-up to the final showdown.

The races, which will affect seeding and starting scores, will give the teams an opportunity to test their 45ft catamaran boats.

"The last ACWS was a game changer for the sport of sailing - the racing was entertaining and brought in the crowds," BBC News quotes Ainslie as saying.

"The new foiling AC45s are going to be faster and even more exciting than the previous generation and we promise to provide an event experience like you have never seen before. Come and cheer us on."

As well as Ainslie's team, holders Oracle Team USA and crews from Italy, France, Sweden and New Zealand will take part.