The America’s Cup yachting event is taking a leap into the virtual world with the launch of its official simulation video game, AC Sailing, along with its first-ever e-sports world championship, America’s Cup E-series.

AC Sailing is developed from the same physics engine used in the simulators that America’s Cup teams train with to enhance racing tactics and recreate race scenarios, as well as develop and test design ideas and iterations for their race yachts. The game is the culmination of over 10 years of research and development by Emirates Team New Zealand

By making it available, the event seeks heighten public engagement with the oldest trophy in international sports.

“Gamers will get to experience America’s Cup sailing as close to reality as possible like never before,” said Grant Dalton, CEO of America’s Cup Event. “We’re thrilled to bring this innovation legacy into the virtual world, elevating the role of sailing within the e-sports ecosystem.”