Malscalzone to compete

"Mascalzone Latino launched its challenge," the team, which represents the Reale Yacht Club Canottieri Savoia of Naples, said on their website.

Mascalzone Latino have taken part in the last two editions of sailing's most prestigious competition.

They were joined by newly created Spanish team Ayre, led by Pedro Perello. They represent the Real Club Nautico de Denia, on Spain's east coast.

"Following on from the successes of the 32nd America's Cup we decided that we want to be part of this event," Perello was quoted as saying in a statement on the official America's Cup website.

"We believe that the 33rd edition is going to provide yet more fantastic moments and now just hope that we can get on with the competition."

The other five challengers are Spain's Desafio Espanol, Team New Zealand, United Internet Team Germany, South Africa's Team Shosholoza and Britain's TeamOrigin.

Organisers AC Management said two more challengers had started registering the necessary documents and could be accepted in the next few days.

The 33rd America's Cup is scheduled to be held in Valencia in 2009 but is in doubt because of a legal wrangle between US team BMW Oracle and defenders Alinghi over the rules Alinghi have set for the event.