Until recently there have only been six entries announced for the Volvo Ocean Race, two from Team ABN Amro and one each from Spain (Telefonica Movistar), Brazil (Brazil 1), Scandinavia (Atlant Ocean Racing) and Australia (Premier Challenge). But with the announcement of a possible British entry managed by Lawrie Smith and skippered by Brian Thompson plus an American entry, said to be fully funded, the total could be eight boats, the same number as in 2001/2. This would be a big boost to the event.