The America's Cup World Series regatta in Portsmouth has been cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic, another blow for America's Cup 2021 preparations.
The announcement comes 11 days after the Cagliari event in Italy was cancelled.
"It is with great regret that the America's Cup Defender, Emirates Team New Zealand, and local organising authority ORIGIN Sports Group announce the unavoidable cancellation of Emirates ACWS Portsmouth, which was scheduled to take place between June 4-7," a statement from Team New Zealand said.
"Over the past few weeks all parties have been following developments with regard to the COVID-19 / Coronavirus from the UK Government, the World Health Organisation, the America's Cup teams, as well as the consideration of stakeholders in the event including the host city Portsmouth and the event Presenting Partner Emirates.
"The health and well being of the public, the volunteers, the stakeholders, event organisers and America's Cup teams have to be put first and foremost and proceeding with the event in the current global climate would simply be irresponsible given the safety considerations. We are also facing significant travel and logistical restrictions that are in place right now and forecast to remain in the coming weeks and potentially months.
