With work on the British America's Cup boat well underway in Cowes, syndicate head Peter Harrison has announced he is to build a second hull for completion next year.

The decision was taken to make sure the British team is well prepared for the next America's Cup cycle, with training for the 2006 event due to start on the two ACC yachts in Cowes next summer.

Harrison, who has always made clear that the GBR Challenge is being set up with future campaigns in mind, said: "I have taken the decision to build a second hull this year in order to secure a second sail number to the GBR 70 we already have, as each team is only allowed two hulls in each cup cycle.

"The building of a second hull will also ensure that the GBR Team has continuity and a flying start in possessing two of the latest generation America's Cup 2002 yachts ready to commence training for the next America's Cup competition anticipated in 2006."

Despite this, Harrison said it did not mean he would necessarily be backing the British team in the future.

This follows repeated assertions that if British business does not support the current campaign, which is being funded to the tune of £17m by Harrison, he may withdraw.

"At this stage, I'm not prepared to commit myself to financially backing the GBR Challenge campaign for the next America's Cup," he said.

"What I will have done is to put in place the requisite building blocks for continuity so that, whether it's myself leading the team or not, GBR Challenge will have the best possible foundations for success in the future."

First published Friday 08 March 2002