America's Cup: Gamers to share €50,000 prize pool and experience racing a real AC40 yacht
by America's Cup Media 11 Jul 01:03 NZST
The Ultimate Prize - America's Cup e-Series - July 2024 © America's Cup Media
The Louis Vuitton 37th America's Cup takes a revolutionary step into the future with the launch of the America's Cup e-Series, its debut e-sports league.
This groundbreaking competition, powered by the hyper-realistic AC Sailing PC game, offers gamers a unique opportunity to compete for a €50,000 prize pool and experience the unparalleled thrill of racing a real AC40 yacht against a Youth America's Cup team.
Developed by Emirates Team New Zealand, AC Sailing utilizes the same cutting-edge simulation technology that real-world America's Cup teams employ, delivering an authentic and immersive sailing experience. This innovative approach blurs the lines between the digital and physical realms, opening a new gateway into the world of competitive sailing for a global audience.
"The America's Cup e-Series is about breaking down barriers and showcasing the excitement of America's Cup racing to everyone," said Grant Dalton, CEO of America's Cup. "By merging the virtual and physical, we're creating an unprecedented opportunity for gamers to experience the thrill of sailing an AC40, a dream previously reserved for professional sailors."
The competition starts with Online Qualifiers from July 31st to September 14th, culminating in a thrilling Grand Final in Barcelona on September 28th. Eight finalists will battle it out for the America's Cup e-Series Champion title and a slice of an impressive €50,000 prize pool.
In a historic first, the top two finishers in the e-Series championship will earn the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to transition from virtual champions to real-world sailors. They will undergo a three-day training program, including simulator sessions and hands-on experience with the AC40, before facing off against the winning team of the inaugural Unicredit Youth America's Cup.
"This is more than just an e-sailing competition; it's a testament to the innovative spirit of the America's Cup," said Team New Zealand's Technical Director Dan Bernasconi. "By going full circle, the e-Series provides a powerful platform for gamers an aspiring sailors to develop their skills and experience the intensity of America's Cup racing firsthand."
The America's Cup e-Series begins with six rounds of online qualifiers from July 31st to September 14th. Open to all AC Sailing players, these qualifiers will grant six coveted seats in the Grand Final in Barcelona. Full details about the competition format and registration can be found at americascup.com/e-series.
AC Sailing is available for free download on Steam and Epic Store. Steam and Epic Store