Yachting: Alinghi accept fifth challenger

America's Cup holders Alinghi have accepted a fifth challenger for the 2009 event in Valencia from United internet Team Germany.

Alinghi have also said they hope to resolve their dispute with BMW Oracle in time for the Americans to join the meetings to agree on the new rules and boat design for the event.

Oracle owner Larry Ellison is suing Alinghi for what he says are "unfair" rules for the running of the next Cup. Alinghi general counsel Hamish Ross said if Oracle dropped the legal action they would be welcome to help with the planning.

Discussions with the other challengers on the new class rules for 90-foot monohulls would begin this week. The rules are set to be in place by October 31.