America’s Cup: New Zealand Makes History with Successful Title Defense
by America’s Cup Media, October 19, 10:31 PDT
Emirates Team New Zealand has marked an unprecedented milestone, clinching the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup after an intense final race against INEOS Britannia in Barcelona. This thrilling conflict saw the Kiwis triumph by a margin of 37 seconds.
The day began with the sight of 350 Patí Catala catamarans gracing the Barcelona waterfront before the main event. The British team sought an aggressive start, entering on starboard in shifting winds of 7-11 knots, quickly maneuvering onto the Kiwi line, sending them far right into the boundary as the race commenced.
Emirates Team New Zealand was the first to gybe along the boundary, but INEOS Britannia, having gybed inside, positioned themselves directly in their path. The Kiwis attempted to break free with two tacks, though the British adeptly managed to keep pace.
As the race neared the line, INEOS Britannia held a lower position, trying to dominate the right side. However, in the last moments, both boats bore away, granting Emirates Team New Zealand the windward position. This strategic advantage allowed them to tack towards the right boundary, and upon tacking back, they crossed ahead—a pivotal moment in the race.
Rather than tacking to cover the British, the resourceful Emirates Team New Zealand crew chose to sail straight into increased pressure and a favorable wind shift, enhancing their lead. Their success resulted from masterful wind interpretation and teamwork, as Peter Burling, Nathan Outteridge, Blair Tuke, and Andy Maloney communicated effectively.
Despite facing long odds, INEOS Britannia’s resilient spirit shone through, resulting in a comeback opportunity during the second windward leg when miscalculation from the Kiwis had occurred.
Sir Ben Ainslie and Dylan Fletcher of INEOS Britannia seized the opportunity, exploiting the right boundary to close the gap as they approached the second windward gate.
With a right-hand wind shift affecting both vessels just before the gate, they opted for opposite markers. Emirates Team New Zealand rounded the port marker while Britannia rounded the starboard, resulting in a measured delta of exactly zero seconds—nothing separated the two boats.
This thrilling tie rounding created a captivating downwind segment. However, following a gybe on the right boundary, Emirates Team New Zealand surged ahead on port gybe, benefitting from a previously noted pressure patch, resulting in a critical 180-meter gain.
The Kiwis, determined not to relinquish their newfound advantage, tactically navigated the right side, tacking alongside Britannia as needed. They crossed the final windward gate at 47 knots with a 17-second lead, showcasing brilliance and exceptional speed.
A flawless final downwind leg saw Emirates Team New Zealand gybe off the right boundary and accelerate towards the finish, making a final gybe onto the port layline, culminating in victory as they crossed the finish line. The delta was officially registered at 37 seconds, and INEOS Britannia quickly acknowledged the Kiwis, who soon celebrated amid a jubilant fleet of spectator boats.
Onboard ‘Taihoro’, the New Zealand flag was raised alongside a banner proclaiming ‘Moltes Gràcies Barcelona’ (Many Thanks, Barcelona). Bernard Arnault, CEO of Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy, joined the Kiwi sailors before the customary champagne celebration ensued.
As both teams towed back to Port Vell amidst countless spectators, Ngati Whatua Orakei welcomed ‘Taihoro’ back to the dock. With this victory, Emirates Team New Zealand has made history as the first team to win the America’s Cup three consecutive times, and the atmosphere at the dock was electrifying.
Peter Burling, skipper of Emirates Team New Zealand, expressed his thoughts on the momentous victory, stating: "It’s surreal, and we’re just starting to absorb it. In the America’s Cup, you’re prepared for a lengthy contest, but to conclude it successfully today in splendid conditions, with so much support cheering us on, was truly special."
Speaking about the race and a pivotal moment where they lost ground to INEOS Britannia, Burling remarked: “Reviewing various aspects of the race will be interesting; we felt good but struggled with shifts at times. The start was even, so we chose to head right, which paid off. I’m really pleased with our improvements throughout the week; the boat felt fantastic, reflecting a great team effort.”
Peter Burling also conveyed pride in their accomplishment, saying: "I’m incredibly proud of our achievements. Winning the America’s Cup is one of the toughest challenges in sports; achieving this three times in a row is exceptionally significant."
He acknowledged Ben Ainslie and the INEOS Britannia team, stating: “All credit goes to Ben and his crew for presenting such a formidable challenge. Their efforts pushed us throughout; every race was a genuine battle, and they were exceptional competitors.”
Kevin Shoebridge, Chief Operating Officer for Emirates Team New Zealand, emphasized teamwork in their victory, stating: “It’s an incredible feeling. I’m thrilled with how today unfolded. This journey has been demanding, and today validated all our hard work. It’s been a true team effort from the start, showcased by our performance today.”
He also commended INEOS Britannia’s role, saying: “We maintain a close relationship with Ben and his team, who are stellar competitors with an excellent boat. Their presence elevated the competition; we merely had the slight edge this time, but it wasn’t easy. Tremendous respect to them for their campaign.”
Sir Ben Ainslie expressed disappointment while acknowledging the incredible journey the British team has taken, stating: “It’s mixed emotions; I must applaud Emirates Team New Zealand for a remarkable achievement. Simply qualifying for the America’s Cup was significant for us, as has been our journey over the past decade, and particularly the last three years.”
“To fall short at this crucial juncture is tough, but we’ve faced one of the best teams in Cup history. We acknowledge this defeat, and our team has excelled in developing through this campaign; as one courageous Brit noted, it’s all about perseverance, which we will maintain.”
Looking ahead and expressing gratitude for support in Barcelona, Ainslie noted: “The support from both Barcelona and the UK has been incredible. I’ve never encountered anything quite like it, and it greatly motivated our team. We aimed to win the Cup and came close; we’re progressing and learning with every attempt.”
"To achieve our goals, persistence is key, so we will continue forward. Each endeavor makes us more efficient and knowledgeable, and with our talented team, we can reach new heights.”
Emirates Team New Zealand gracefully accepted the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup trophy at a ceremony in the Race Village this evening. According to Grant Dalton, CEO of America’s Cup Event and Emirates Team New Zealand, details for the next event will be announced soon, consistent with tradition as a challenge is usually declared once the winning boat crosses the finish line.
As one of the world’s premier sports teams, Emirates Team New Zealand continues to raise the bar. In Barcelona, they elevated it even higher with their historic third consecutive victory in the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup, marking a remarkable achievement by an extraordinary team.