The original contestants in the first America’s Cup must be turning in their graves. The thought that for the first time in the 159 year history of the event, the winner on the water of the next contest, which starts on February 8th in Valencia, may end up being declared the losers in a Court of Law, really demeans the whole sporting ethos that the Americas Cup is supposed to represent.

The ‘Cup’ is the oldest active trophy in international sport and it should be treated with the respect that position accords it. To enable some time for thinking here is a suggestion! In order to avoid the embarrassment which would undoubtedly be caused by the ‘wrong’ side taking the cup home after the ‘best of three’ races in Valencia, it should be placed in ‘neutral territory’ until the victor is finally decided in court. Where better than the acknowledged home of international yacht racing but Cowes; after all the Cup originated from the Royal Yacht Squadron.