Live performers, fireworks and Red Bull skydivers will help generate excitement in the America’s Cup Village when the sailing showpiece’s opening races take place in May.

Organisers of the 35th America’s Cup in Bermuda announced details of the opening programme which will take place on Friday, May 26.

Racing will start at 5pm, with America’s Cup defender Oracle Team USA taking on Groupama Team France in the first match race.

That battle will set the stage for races two, three and four of the Louis Vuitton America’s Cup Qualifiers, when all six teams will take each other on the water on the first day of racing.

Artemis Racing will race against SoftBank Team Japan in race two; Groupama Team France against Emirates Team New Zealand in race three; and Land Rover BAR against Artemis Racing in race four.

With each match race scheduled to last approximately 20 minutes, day one of the race schedule is provisionally due to conclude at 7pm. Then, all eyes will turn to the main stage in the America’s Cup Village where the official Opening Ceremony of the 35th America’s Cup will begin.

Russell Coutts, CEO of the America’s Cup, said in a press release: “This is the perfect way to start what I believe is going to be the best America’s Cup yet.

“With race one of the 35th America’s Cup starting at 5pm we are looking forward to welcoming fans to watch the opening races then soon afterwards enjoy the evening activities.”

Existing ticket holders for the America’s Cup race village or any other purchased spectator experiences on May 26 will be able to access the Opening Ceremony at no additional cost. The America’s Cup Village will open to all ticket holders from 3pm.

To book your place, visit www.americascup.com/tickets.