Chicago will make history next year when it becomes the first freshwater venue to host America’s Cup racing.

The America’s Cup World Series will visit the “Windy City” in June and race on Lake Michigan as part of the qualifying event for the 2017 America’s Cup in Bermuda.

“Chicagoans continue to prove their affinity for all sports and now they have the opportunity to add America’s Cup sailing to the list,” Desiree Rogers, the Choose Chicago chairwoman, said. “We have no doubt that our amazing city, its residents and beautiful Lake Michigan will deliver the ultimate experience for the international sailing community.”

Navy Pier, celebrating its centennial in 2016, will serve as event headquarters from June 10—12, and include a ticketed viewing area, entertainment and VIP hospitality areas for fans to enjoy as the high-performance 45-foot foiling catamarans race by at 40mph close to the shore.

“We are looking forward to a historic year in 2016 at Navy Pier,” Marilynn Gardner, Navy Pier Inc chief executive, said. “We will celebrate our centennial and an event like the Louis Vuitton America’s Cup World Series Chicago is a tremendous opportunity to welcome new and returning maritime enthusiasts and casual fans to the Pier. There is no better way to showcase our newly renovated and reimagined public spaces to the world.”

Oracle Team USA, the defending champions, have close ties to Chicago. Larry Ellison, the team’s principal, grew up there and studied at the University of Illinois and the University of Chicago. Matt Cassidy, a team member, called Chicago home for five years before relocating to Bermuda in the spring.

“Chicago is a world-class city, and Navy Pier’s lakefront architecture creates the perfect sailing venue to showcase the excitement of the modern America’s Cup,” Sir Russell Coutts, America’s Cup Event Authority chief executive officer, said. “Regardless of wind direction, spectators are guaranteed up-close racing action.”