It might seem bizarre to many that a country without any sea borders is favourite to win the America’s Cup but that is just the case this upcoming weekend with Switzerland's Alinghi rated at -190 odds with Bodog.com
Team New Zealand will compete against the Swiss on June 23 after they completed a 5-0 whitewash of Italy’s Luna Rossa to win the Louis Vuitton Cup and secure a rematch with reigning America's Cup holders Alinghi. With skipper Dean Barker at the helm, the Kiwi yacht recently beat the Italian team by 22 seconds to take an unassailable lead in the best-of-nine series.
New Zealand have won the America's Cup twice before in 1995 and 2000.
On the last occasion, Team New Zealand beat Luna Rossa 5-0 to win sailing's most prestigious prize.
The America's Cup is the most coveted event in inshore yacht racing.
Multi million-pound syndicates, using cutting-edge technology and design whilst employing the world's best sailors to battle it out head-to-head for the oldest trophy in sports.
The boats used for the 32nd America's Cup are the America's Cup Class (ACC). Designers must stick to specific rules governing length, weight and sail area, but can make trade-offs in each area to best maximize boat speed in the expected conditions.
Bodog.com has posted sailing betting odds on which team will win the 2007 America's Cup:
Team Alinghi (Switzerland): -190
Emirates Team New Zealand: +140
