America's Cup World Series to return to Naples

But that will be the only AC45 event in Italy in 2013

The America's Cup World Series will return to Naples over 16-21 April for the season's first event of 2013.

This year Naples originally hosted the America’s Cup World Series in April, the event highlighted with the debut of Luna Rossa, which won the fleet racing and finished in second place in the match racing.

“We are very happy to be returning to Naples for our only event in Europe in 2013,” said Stephen Barclay, the CEO of the 34th America’s Cup. “The people of Naples turned out in force to celebrate the America’s Cup and the Luna Rossa team in 2012 and we anticipate even more enthusiasm for the 2013 edition.”

“We have worked hard alongside our partners to ensure the city will host the America’s Cup World Series again,” said Mario Hubler, the CEO of ACN, the administrative body charged with securing and running the event. “Now we have to roll up our sleeves and, in collaboration with the America’s Cup organizers, ensure that the races of 2013 will be an even greater success than those of last April.”

Oracle Team USA, the home team in the United States, charged with defending the America’s Cup in 2013, is currently leading the 2012-13 series.

Following the April event in Naples, Italy, the 2012-13 America’s Cup World Series will culminate with two events in the USA at the end of May. (Ie dear readers, there will be no repeat event in Venice.)