Emirates Team New Zealand and Peter Burling are parting ways ahead of the 38th America’s Cup, saying that they both have ‘respect’ for each other. A statement notes that discussions between the team’s management and Burling have been ongoing since Barcelona, however an agreement was not able to be reached.
“Pete has been a central figure who has grown incredibly within Emirates Team New Zealand since he joined 10 years ago. We can all look back with great pride on what has been achieved, having enjoyed unprecedented success as a team with Pete at the helm,” says Emirates Team New Zealand CEO Grant Dalton.
“Winning the America’s Cup three times in a row was uncharted territory, but what has enabled winning in the past does not always equate to winning in the future, especially in much tighter America’s Cup cycles which require a dedicated and new approach for continued success.”
With what are being described as ‘more regular cycles’, the requirements on team members are changing. As the balance between design, simulation, boat build, testing and racing windows become compressed, the integration of key sailors with the design team becomes more critical than ever, says the statement.
Burling says he’s reflected on the amazing journey he’s had with the cup. He was a strong proponent for using foils, and pushing tech boundaries. “Over the past decade, I’ve had the privilege of being part of something truly special–from intense battles to unforgettable victories, and friendships that extend well beyond sailing. I’m immensely proud of everything we’ve achieved together and grateful to everyone who has been part of this chapter.”
Earlier this week, Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Ineos Britannia team confirmed it will not compete in the 38th America’s Cup, following the conclusion of a ‘protracted negotiation’ with Athena Racing – the team of Ineos’ former skipper Sir Ben Ainslie. Four-time Olympic champion Ainslie previously led the British boat, before parting ways with Ineos in January. That split appears to be becoming increasingly acrimonious.
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