BMW Oracle's brand new USA-98

BMW Oracle, the Challenger of Record of the 32nd America's Cup, just received their brand new yacht, USA-98, in their temporary base in Auckland.

According to BMW ORACLE Racing, the boat-building and shore teams are now fitting the appendages and preparing the mast for the new race yacht. The boat will be launched for the first time next week and then the sailing team will conduct sea trials before race training begins. The 2003-generation USA 71 will serve as the trial horse for the new race yacht. The team will focus on crew preparation for the 2007 Cup season with an intensive sailing programme over the next 5 weeks.

You can read the official press release at the team's website or get a more detailed -- and interesting -- insider account at their blog. The first two pictures of the new boat are courtesy of the BMW Oracle blog.

BMW Oracle's USA-98 transported through the western United States. Photo courtesy of BMW Oracle blog

BMW Oracle's USA-98 transported through the western United States. Photo courtesy of BMW Oracle blog

BMW Oracle's USA-98 arrives at the team's temporary base in New Zealand. Auckland, 8 January 2007. Photo copyright Ivor Wilkins / BMW Oracle

BMW Oracle's USA-98 arrives at the team's temporary base in New Zealand. Auckland, 8 January 2007. Photo copyright Ivor Wilkins / BMW Oracle