Oracle Team USA have pinned their hopes on achieving a hat-trick of America’s Cup victories on one boat. The American defender had the option of launching a second boat, which they are allowed to do under the rules governing the 35th America’s Cup, with challengers limited to one.

The rules state that the second boat must be launched a month before the Louis Vuitton America’s Cup Qualifiers and could be sailed only once the qualifying regatta was completed.

However, Oracle are evidently satisfied with the boat they raced in the Qualifiers, as there has been no sight of a second boat with each passing deadline as outlined in the rules.

Oracle will face challenger Emirates Team New Zealand in the 35th America’s Cup Match, presented by Louis Vuitton, which starts tomorrow on the Great Sound.

The teams met in the previous America’s Cup Match in San Francisco in 2013, when Oracle pulled off a stunning comeback after trailing 8-1 to retain their title.

Oracle will start their second defence with a head start against the Kiwis after winning the qualifying regatta.

In the final lead-up to their grudge match with Team New Zealand, Oracle have used every opportunity to upgrade their boat and sharpen their sailing skills.

“We’re trying to maximise our days,” Matt Cassidy, the Oracle bowman/grinder, said. “We have a huge checklist to get through, whether it be boat-handling or speed test and we need to get every minute out there that we can.”

Much of Oracle’s focus in training has been on the pre-start, where they feel they have the edge over the Kiwis, as well as being more consistent manoeuvring around the racecourse.

“You can’t ever take your foot off the gas,” Joey Newton, the Oracle trimmer, said. “We will keep pushing right through to the end because we know that’s what it takes to win.

“There’s no greater prize in yachting than the America’s Cup. It’s a lifelong dream for every sailor on this team to win the America’s Cup.

“We’re not giving this up without a fight, and I really like our chances.”