SKIPPER: Magnus Olsson
The Nordic novices are out to prove a point. With veteran Magnus Olsson on board, laughs and hard labour are assured
SKIPPER: Torben Grael
Torben Grael’s men are most people’s idea of favourites for overall honours. Well-drilled, experienced and driven
SKIPPER: Ken Read
Ken Read’s crew are the thoroughbreds of the fleet. Quietly confident and full of conviction, they pose a threat to all comers
SKIPPER: Bouwe Bekking
Skipper Bouwe Bekking is desperate to consign the disappointment of 2005-06 to history. Underestimate him at your peril
SKIPPER: Fernando Echavarri
A largely-Spanish crew spearheaded by 2008 Tornado gold medallist Fernando Echavarri, they have hunger on their side
SKIPPER: Andreas Hanakamp
The Russians' radically-designed Kosatka (Killer Whale) can count on the home support of the finish port of St Petersburg.
SKIPPER Ian Walker
The Chino-Celtic have come late to the party but may still spring a surprise with a committed British Olympian Ian Walker at the helm
SKIPPER: Roberto Bermudez
The eleventh-hour entry for the 2008-09 race, Delta Lloyd, is led by Spanish skipper Roberto Bermudez. Flying under the Dutch flag, the team will campaign a much-modified ABN AMRO ONE.