America's Cup e-Series Barcelona Grand Final
by America's Cup 22 Sep 11:46 BST
28 September 2024
America's Cup e-Series © America's Cup e-Series
After six highly competitive qualifying rounds, the America's Cup e-Series-the Louis Vuitton 37th America's Cup's debut esports league-will culminate in a thrilling Grand Final showdown in Barcelona on September 28, 2024.
Eight elite America's Cup e-Series players from seven countries will go head-to-head for the €50,000 prize pool and the title of the first-ever America's Cup e-Series Champion. The Grand Final, taking place at the Louis Vuitton 37th America's Cup Race Village in the Port Vell, will see the world's best players pit their finely-honed virtual racing skills against one another in what promises to be one of the closest contests of the summer of sailing in Barcelona.
Adding to the stakes, the top two finishers in the e-Series championship will win a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get onboard a real-life AC40 - World Sailing's 'Boat of the Year 2023' and the foiling yacht used for the UniCredit Youth and Puig Women's America's Cup competitions.
Capable of speeds in excess of 50 knots, this will be a sharp real life contrast to the virtual reality of the gaming world and the winners will receive three days of intensive training, including simulator sessions and hands-on experience, before racing against a UniCredit Youth America's Cup team on October 2.
The ultimate experience, this is the embodiment of the 'Gamer to Sailor' initiative, but the Grand Final will also feature much more with world-class entertainment, light shows, guest appearances, and a closing DJ set by the renowned duo Catz 'N Dogz. The Louis Vuitton 37th America's Cup Race Village is set to dance to a very different beat as the esport gamers hit town and it's something that Grant Dalton, CEO of America's Cup Event (ACE) is looking forward to:
"The America's Cup e-Series is more than just an esports competition; it's a testament to the innovative spirit of the America's Cup. The championship embodies our vision of making sailing accessible to a global audience, and the competition we've seen so far has been nothing short of remarkable. We're incredibly excited to witness these eight talented finalists battle it out in Barcelona and we're really looking forward to putting on a great show in the Race Village."
Three Continents, Eight Sailors: The Final Battle for Glory
The eight finalists vying for the championship title are:
- Peterzon (Hungary): At 19, Peterzon is already making his mark in virtual sailing. His consistent performance and tactical skill earned him victory in the first America's Cup e-Series Playoff Final, impressing even sailing legend Nathan Outteridge.
- BengBengFRA (France): BengbengFRA is known for his composure under pressure. He secured his place in the Barcelona Grand Final with a last-race victory in the second Playoff Final, demonstrating his ability to seize opportunities.
- eSailingCentral (New Zealand): At just 14 years old, eSailingCentral is a rising star in the America's Cup e-Series. He secured his spot in Barcelona with a convincing win in Qualifier 3, showcasing his natural sailing instincts.
- RockyBDA (Bermuda): RockyBDA brings real-world sailing experience to the virtual racecourse. A former Olympic hopeful and current TP52 grinder, he recently transitioned to esailing and quickly found success, winning Qualifier 4 with a display of tactical skill and determination.
- Ruish (Italy): A consistent contender in the e-Series, Ruish qualified for every playoff final before securing his victory in Qualifier 5. He brings a wealth of experience and a focus on speed and accuracy to the Barcelona Grand Final.
- Booshify (New Zealand): Booshify's persistence paid off with a dominant win in the Qualifier 6 Play-off Final, securing his place in Barcelona. Known for his consistency and strategic approach, he'll be vying for the title alongside his fellow Kiwi competitor, eSailingCentral.
- Marremeister (Sweden): Marremeister brings a strong sailing background to the e-Series, having earned a bronze medal at the Junior World Championships in the 49er class. His tactical skills and resilience make him a competitor to watch in future events.
- Raix (Estonia): Raix brings real-world sailing experience to the e-Series Grand Final. As a mainsail trimmer on a 31-foot yacht, he's no stranger to the challenges and intricacies of sailing. Competing in Barcelona is the fulfillment of a lifelong dream to experience the America's Cup firsthand.
A Star-Studded Lineup of Entertainment
The Grand Final show will be hosted by renowned DJ and radio presenter Tony Aguilar. America's Cup presenter Jesse Tuke will provide the main commentary, joined by esports caster Martin and Emirates Team New Zealand's Liv Mackay. The evening will conclude with an electrifying DJ set by the internationally acclaimed duo Catz 'N Dogz.
Free Access and Global Livestream
The America's Cup e-Series Grand Final is free and open to the public. The action will take place at the main stage of the Official America's Cup Race Village from 2030 to 0000 CET on September 28, 2024.
For those unable to attend in person, the event will be livestreamed on the America's Cup YouTube and Twitch channels.
About the America's Cup e-Series
The America's Cup e-Series is the first-ever esports league by the America's Cup, powered by the hyper-realistic AC Sailing PC game. This groundbreaking competition merges the virtual and physical worlds of sailing, offering a unique opportunity for gamers and sailing enthusiasts alike to experience the thrill of America's Cup racing.