OREANDA-NEWS. SoftBank Corp. and the Kansai Yacht Club announced they have come to an agreement to express their intent to challenge for the 2017 America's Cup. As SoftBank Team Japan, the team will compete in the 2015 America's Cup World Series events, and try for the 2017 America's Cup in Bermuda. SoftBank will support the team as a sponsor.

"To lead a Japan team challenge for the America's Cup is a dream come true," said Kazuhiko Sofuku, the team's general manager. "This is a great opportunity for Japan and for Japanese sailors to get back into the America's Cup game," Sofuku added.

"It is an honor for the Kansai Yacht Club to try for the America's Cup for the first time," said Ko Watanabe, commodore of Kansai Yacht Club. "This is a great challenge to take on, not just for our club, but for the entire country. With support from across the entire nation, I am sure we will represent Japan with pride."

SoftBank Group representative Masayoshi Son said, "I am thrilled to announce that we will be supporting Team Japan at the America's Cup." He added, "Taking on this major challenge at the pinnacle of yacht races matches with the SoftBank Group's aim to be the global No.1. We look forward to cheering on Team Japan along with all of their supporters."