America's Cup: Artemis Technologies announce backing of Swedish Challenge for Youth and Womens teams

Artemis Technology CEO Iain Percy launches the Swedish Challenge alongside Torbjörn Törnqvist, a passionate sailor and a funder of the Swedish Challenge, Alice von Geijer (GKSS) , Fredrick Bergström, Patrik Salén (KSSS) © Swedish Challenge

Artemis Technologies, a world leading producer of zero-emission vessels, together with the Royal Yacht Clubs of Sweden, GKSS and KSSS, has announced the launch of the Swedish Challenge for the upcoming Youth & Puig Women’s America’s Cup.

Artemis Technologies’ Applied Consulting Division is leveraging its technical prowess, operational expertise, and managerial skills to support the Swedish Challenge. The inaugural Puig Women's America's Cup and third Youth America's Cup events are scheduled to be held in Barcelona in September-October 2024, in parallel with the 37th America’s Cup.

The Swedish Challenge powered by Artemis Technologies has been granted entries into both the Women’s and Youth America's Cups. The final teams will be chosen from the Artemis Academy, which has been developed as a solid foundation for Swedish top-level foiling athletes.

Participants will have access to a program of knowledge and coaching that will enable them to compete at the pinnacle of sailing in the most technologically advanced boats in the world. The Artemis Pathway programme is also launched today; it will enable youth sailors to enter the world of foiling sailing to establish a legacy for future generations across Sweden.

Iain Percy, CEO of Artemis Technologies and former Artemis Racing Team Manager, expressed his enthusiasm for the venture, stating: "We are delighted to be powering the Swedish Challenge in this milestone year with the inaugural Women’s America’s Cup. It is fantastic to bring the Artemis team back together, combining our expertise and experience to support these talented sailors. This campaign will not only showcase the incredible skills of the Swedish Challenge but also push the boundaries of what is possible in sailing. Artemis Technologies has made significant strides since its previous involvement in the America’s Cup, investing over Euro 80 million in green tech R&D to bring to market a fleet of zero-emission products.”

Torbjörn Törnqvist, a passionate sailor and a funder of the Swedish Challenge campaign, shared his excitement about the launch of the teams and the partnership with Artemis Technologies, saying: "I am thrilled about creating opportunities for our young, incredibly talented Swedish sailors to take another step forward. By collaborating with Artemis Technologies, we can leverage their cutting-edge expertise and invaluable experience to enhance our performance on the water. I truly believe we are creating a platform of the highest standard, capable of going all the way. Inclusivity and gender equality in our sport is so right. And I am particularly excited about the Artemis Pathway programme that will give young girls and boys the opportunity to experience foiling and, in some cases, launch exciting professional careers.”

Women’s team member, Anna Östling, expressed her gratitude for the support received from Artemis Technologies, stating: "As a female sailor, I am proud to be a part of a campaign that emphasises gender equality and encourages the participation of young talent. Artemis Technologies' support not only enhances our chances of success but also paves the way for future female sailors to excel. This partnership is a testament to their commitment to empowering women in maritime."

Announcing the team’s participation in the competition, Grant Dalton, CEO America’s Cup Event said: “We welcome the Swedish Challenge powered by Artemis Technologies to the Puig Women’s and Youth America’s Cup. Both Sweden as a county and Artemis Technologies, an applied technologies spin-off from Artemis Racing, have a significant maritime and America’s Cup history and will no doubt be formidable challengers in the Women’s and Youth events. It is clear that they see these two events for what they are, a clear pathway for yacht clubs, teams and women and youth sailors into the main America’s Cup event so we are excited to have them as part of the vision for future.”

This ground-breaking collaboration also brings together Sweden's sailing prowess with the unwavering support of both the Royal Swedish Yacht Club and Gothenburg Royal Yacht Club, uniting the nation behind a truly cross-country challenge.

Both clubs commented on how proud and excited they are to be part of the Swedish Challenge.

Patrik Salén, Commodore, Royal Swedish Yacht Club commented: “We have had the pleasure to partner with Artemis in two previous Cup challenges and know that their dedication and high ambitions, will be a guarantee for the best possible results for a Swedish Challenge. Partnering with Artemis Technologies, and the Royal Gothenburg Yacht Club, is a superb platform for offering the best and brightest amongst the Swedish sailors a unique opportunity to challenge the best in the world with some of the most technically advanced yachts ever.”

While Alice von Geijer Commodore of the Royal Gothenburg Yacht Club stated: “We are extra proud to be part of this coming 37th America’s Cup together with Royal Swedish Yacht Club and Artemis Technologies, where women for the first time will be able to compete on the same terms as men. This cooperation will give great opportunities for us as a nation to develop sailing in Sweden, creating new role models and possibilities, fostering new world-class Swedish sailors.”