Mafia gangs linked to building projects for America's Cup races

Sicilian magistrates are investigating allegations that lucrative construction projects in preparation for America's Cup yacht races were awarded to members of the island's Cosa Nostra, prompting one Italian magazine to call the world's most prestigious yachting competition the "Mafia's Cup".

The competition's organisers were not involved in awarding the contracts.

The reports have surfaced amid accusations that the Interior Ministry under-secretary Antonio D'Ali sacked a local prefect known for his fight to prevent the underworld controlling the building industry.

The Sicilian port of Trapani boasted the strong winds and open sea views that made it an ideal host for the qualifying races held from 28 September to 9 October, organisers believed. The historic port was spruced up for the event.Last month officers from the local police flying squad arrested Ciccio Pace, the reputed Cosa Nostra kingpin of Trapani, and five local building entrepreneurs on charges of membership of a mob aimed at using extortion to obtain control of business linked to the competition.