China Team is the first syndicate ever to carry the Chinese Flag in the history of the America’s Cup. It was founded in March 2005 by the company Le Defi which brings its know how and technical platform from two preceding French campaigns in the America's Cup, together with a group of Chinese entrepreneurs.
The syndicate represents the Qingdao International Yacht Club, hosting yacht club for the sailing events of the 2008 Olympic Games.
To create the first Chinese participation in the America’s Cup was an immense challenge, for the competition in Europe but also in China where sailing was a new sport and in full development. China Team has been actively promoting the America's Cup and sailing in China as well as scouting out and training talented sailors, with the objective of building a progressively stronger team.
It’s why the Team has been looking for a modern and exciting sportboat, to be used for its own operations in China and Europe.
From February to December 2006, a group of China Team members lead by Pierre Mas, team skipper, has been testing a good number of existing sportboats, practicing regattas and match racing.
The development of Longtze Premier lasted for 9 months, from February to October 2007.
