EXPOSED: THE DARK SIDE OF THE AMERICA’S CUP

The inaugural race, sailed round the Isle of Wight in 1851, was characterised by the churlish and unsportsmanlike behaviour of the Royal Yacht Squadron, panicked by the radical new design and high performance of the schooner America (the Marquess of Anglesey almost fell overboard, peering for her hidden propeller). Little has changed since. Exposed is a gripping account of men, money, vested interests and gamesmanship: Australia II’S ‘keelgate’ triumph, New Zealand’s ‘glassgate’ challenge, skittering multihulls with aerofoils and body armour, aggressive psychology and litigation. The Royal NZ Yacht Squadron is the current defender – can the City of Sails treat its challengers more graciously?