Image source: REUTERS/Albert Gea
New Zealand has achieved a historic milestone, clinching their third consecutive America’s Cup with a commanding 7-2 series victory over Britain on Saturday in Barcelona. Their sleek AC75 yacht, Taihoro, became the center of joyous celebrations, as the crew marked their victory at sea before heading ashore to a grand Maori welcome.
The triumph solidifies New Zealand’s dominance in the competition, having defended the prestigious “Auld Mug” they previously won in Auckland (2021) and Bermuda (2017). This makes them one of the most successful teams in the cup’s 173-year history, a legacy further cemented by their charismatic skipper, Peter Burling, who is now the most successful helmsman in the event’s history.
“This is an unbelievable feeling,” said Burling on the live broadcast. “Our goal was accomplished, and it feels amazing. Thank you to all who contributed to our success.”
His long-time teammate Blair Tuke added: “It’s been a phenomenal journey. We’ve done everything we set out to do, and this team has been incredible throughout.”
Celebrations on the Water
The victorious New Zealand crew, dressed in their iconic black uniforms, was surrounded by a fleet of jubilant boats with horns blaring as they celebrated. Champagne flowed freely on Taihoro, with crew members spraying each other and toasting the high-tech marvel that carried them to glory.
New Zealand’s team leader, Grant Dalton, credited the entire team and thanked the city of Barcelona for hosting the event. “This was a true team effort. I’m also grateful to the fans who came all the way from New Zealand to support us.”
Britain’s Decade-Long Pursuit Falls Short
British skipper Ben Ainslie, leading the yacht Britannia, was gracious in defeat, acknowledging New Zealand’s superiority. “The better team won today,” Ainslie admitted. “Their performance in this competition was outstanding. We’ve never seen anything like it. Congratulations to them on their incredible achievement.”
Despite the loss, the British campaign was historic in its own right, marking the team’s first final appearance in 60 years after a thrilling victory over Italy in the Louis Vuitton Cup. Ainslie, backed by British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe and technical expertise from the Mercedes Formula One team, had invested over $130 million in their ambitious quest to win the Cup for the first time since the event began in 1851.
“This has been a challenging journey, but we’ve grown stronger,” Ainslie said. “We’re still fighting to win the Cup.”
When asked if he would lead the next challenge, the 47-year-old skipper remained committed: “I’ll do whatever is best for the team to succeed.”
A Triumphant Return to Shore
As Taihoro was towed into Barcelona’s harbor at high speed, riding majestically above the water on its hydrofoils, fans and supporters greeted the crew with cheers. The British crew aboard Britannia waved to their fans, receiving a warm welcome from family and friends upon their return.
New Zealand’s triumph is not just another victory—it’s a statement of sustained excellence in the world’s oldest international sporting event. As the celebrations continue into the night, one thing is clear: the Kiwis have once again proven that they are the team to beat in the America’s Cup.
With Britain vowing to return stronger, the next edition promises another thrilling chapter in this storied rivalry. For now, though, New Zealand’s sailors are at the pinnacle of their sport, riding high on both waves and history.
