Ernesto Bertarelli today confirmed that he has signed an agreement with 37 year old champion sailor, Russell Coutts to form a syndicate to compete for the 2003 America’s Cup Challenge.

Bertarelli said, ‘I am delighted to be working with Russell. Having won the last two America’s Cup competitions, Russell’s skill is undisputed. I am confident that together we will build a powerful team to bring the America’s Cup to Europe. This is the only the first step in a very exciting process.’

Ernesto Bertarelli, 34 years old, is CEO of the leading global Biotechnology Company Serono S.A.

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