Gamers sit around looking at screens as they play AC Sailing, a simulation of what it's like to sail a boat

The Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup is launching an America’s Cup e-Series.

The competition, powered by the AC Sailing PC game, offers an opportunity for gamers to compete for a €50,000 prize pool, and to race in real life in an AC40 against a Youth America’s Cup team. The game’s billed as being ‘hyper-realistic’, but the actual reality of racing on an AC40 would surely be unparalleled.

Developed by Emirates Team New Zealand, AC Sailing (free to download on Steam and Epic Store) utilises the same simulation technology employed by real-world America’s Cup teams, and is said to deliver an authentic and immersive sailing experience.

“The America’s Cup e-Series is about breaking down barriers and showcasing the excitement of America’s Cup racing to everyone,” says 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 kicks off with online qualifiers from 31 July to 14 September. Then the final’s in Barcelona on 28 September. Eight finalists will battle it out for the title of America’s Cup e-Series Champion and a slice of the €50,000 prize pool.

The top two finishers will earn the chance 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,” says Dan Bernasconi, technical director of Team New Zealand. “By going full circle, the e-Series provides a powerful platform for gamers and aspiring sailors to develop their skills and experience the intensity of America’s Cup racing firsthand.”

Full details about the competition format and registration can be found online.

Recently, shockwaves rippled through the America’s Cup community as BoatOne, Alinghi Red Bull Racing’s brand new AC75, dismasted. This is a highly unusual occurrence.

America's Cup sailing game prize pool structure graphic

The post Gamers get chance to sail on AC40, if they win the e-contest appeared first on Marine Industry News.