Rope deal tied up

Gleistein to develop special cordage for BMW Oracle

As official supplier, the rope manufacturer Gleistein Ropes from Bremen supports BMW Oracle Racing in the 32nd America’s Cup. All current gear will be provided by Gleistein. “That’s a real tough test for our material – and an excellent chance,” commented Gleistein rope spokesperson Thomas Schlätzer about the new cooperation.

From now on Gleistein Ropes may carry the title of an “official supplier.” The rope material for the BMW Oracle Racing yachts will come completely and exclusively from Bremen for the next two and a half years. The core shell braiding and round braiding from the finest materials are being introduced. Dyneema, Vectran, Kevlar and PBO can stand the test under the extreme conditions. The weight of the keel alone is 19 tons, and almost 900 square metres of sail can be hoisted. The current gear has an overall length of around 1,000 meters. One part of it belongs to the standard range of Gleistein Ropes. The majority of the ropes are developed, however, especially for the team. The engineers from Gleistein Ropes will work closely together with the team from BMW Oracle Racing in Valencia.