Americans, Swiss finally to decide America’s Cup on water after long court fight

America’s Cup finally turns to sailing after court

VALENCIA, Spain — The 33rd edition of the America’s Cup is finally on.

After more than two years of bitter courtroom battles between two of the world’s richest men, the two-time defending champion Alinghi and American challenger BMW Oracle Racing of California will begin their best-of-three showdown.

They are to start racing off the coast of Valencia on Monday, weather-permitting.

BMW Oracle Racing, owned by software tycoon Larry Ellison, will sail the trimaran USA. The Swiss, headed by biotech mogul Ernesto Bertarelli, will counter with Alinghi 5, a catamaran. Both are 90 feet long and capable of sailing at three times the speed of the wind.

They’ll compete for the oldest trophy in international sports, which boasts a 159-year history.