The new Italian

Nigel Cherrie talks to Andy Hemmings, the sole Brit on Prada's sailing team

mfs: Outside of the Cup, do you have Olympic or Volvo aspirations?

AH: I was upset to see the Soling to get thrown out of the Olympics. That would have been ideal for me. I would have liked to finish this America's Cup and have another crack at the Olympics. That is still unfinished business for me. But now the Soling is out I don't really see an opening in the Olympic classes.

I have been very interested in the Volvo but maybe my age is going to count against me next time around as it a very physical race. Plus, anyone who knows me knows I don't like getting wet for long, so perhaps it isn't for me!

mfs: Finally, what are your predictions for the Louis Vuitton Cup?

My main prediction is that it will be very hard fought. There will be a lot more match racing than last time out and no one boat is going to win every race. It is going to be very scrappy.

mfs: Thank you Andy and good luck.

Prada's training boats Luna Rossa and Young America fight it out