Sailing: Team France headquarters destroyed in fire, cause yet to be determined

The Lorient base of Team France after the fire. Photo / Team France

Team France has been devastated by a fire that destroyed their headquarters in Lorient, but are still vowing to make the next America's Cup in Auckland.

The team reported that the fire broke out in the early hours of June 9, but luckily none of their equipment was stored in the facility at the time of the fire.

"It is extremely fortunate that there was no victims", Team France said in a statement, including the teams foiling catamaran used in Bermuda last year.

Despite the setback, Team France skipper Franck Cammas said the fire would not have an impact on their next campaign.

"This has no impact whatsoever on our motivation and our campaign for the next edition of the Cup," Team France skipper Franck Cammas said in a statement.

"It's a real shame to witness the destruction of an innovative building built some 20 years ago by the town of Lorient with the aim of accommodating a series of key sailing projects on the international stage.

Groupama Team France skipper Franck Cammas prior to Day 2 of the Americas Cup. Photo / Getty Images

"This fantastic initiative by the town has provided sailors with some high-performance technical means, on a par with the far-reaching ambitions of professional sailing teams.

"I hope that a new building for challenges will quickly see the light of day so that this great idea continues to bear fruit.

"I'd like to pass on my heartfelt thanks to all the firefighters who battled to get the fire under control throughout the night. We've also received a massive amount of messages of support, which is really heart-warming.

"This fire has nevertheless seen something that is a symbol of the majority of my professional career go up in flames."

Team France was the first team to be eliminated in Bermuda - their first ever America's Cup campaign.

They are yet to enter the 2021 America's Cup in Auckland and have until the end of the month to apply.

The fire is the latest in a string of setbacks for the team lead by Cammas, with long-time sponsors Groupama pulling out late last year.

"Bolstered by the unfailing support of partners and supporters, Team France will continue to work hard so that France is present at the 36th America's Cup," the statement said.

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