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3 time America’s Cup winner swaps New Zealand for Italy in shock move

Peter Burling the Kiwi wunderkind of the crusing world has been signed to long-time rival, Italy’s Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli

Peter Burling, essentially the most profitable America’s Cup helm within the fashionable period, has signed with Italian group Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli.

Following a lot hypothesis, the Italian challengers confirmed at present, Friday 20 June 2025 that Burling – who helmed Emirates Group New Zealand to a document three back-to-back wins (the ‘three-Pete’) – will be a part of Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli for the thirty eighth America’s Cup cycle.

Burling introduced he was departing Group New Zealand again in early April this yr, after he and group boss Grant Dalton have been unable to return to settlement on key phrases.

Precisely what they have been have been by no means disclosed, however there was loads of hypothesis that it was to do with the extent of all-in dedication Dalton sought from his key group members. Burling can also be skipper of the Black Foils New Zealand SailGP group.

Burling’s SailGP group racing in entrance of an adoring house crowd earlier in 2025. Picture: Felix Diemer for SailGP

Precisely what capability Burling will be a part of the Italian group in is unclear, partially because of wording in a draft protocol launched by Group New Zealand in late Might 2025

That draft Protocol at the moment forbids sailors who competed within the final Cup for one nation representing one other in AC38 stating:

‘…as much as two non-nationals could take part as crew on a Competitor’s yacht in a race within the AC38 Occasions, offered such non-nationals didn’t take part as crew in any races of the next AC37 Occasions – the AC37 Remaining Preliminary Regatta, the Challenger Choice Collection or the AC37 Match.’

This rule was identified to be one of many sticking factors amongst a number of Challengers – together with the Challenger of Report, Ben Ainslie’s Athena Racing.

Nevertheless, the Italian challengers have been notably quiet following the current dissent voiced by the British, American and Swiss groups.

This does elevate the query of whether or not the Italians intend to have Burling on the water for AC38 in any respect, or if that rule is not set to be included within the Protocol.

Peter Burling has signed for the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli group for the thirty eighth America’s Cup

“We’re thrilled to welcome Peter Burling to Luna Rossa,” mentioned Max Sirena, CEO of Luna Rossa. “Peter has been a long-time rival, and over time we’ve come to deeply respect each his distinctive crusing expertise and his sportsmanship on the racecourse.

“Despite the fact that his precise position has but to be outlined, he will definitely be a part of the crusing group, reinforcing Luna Rossa’s core management group and contributing to key areas of our growth program.

“Peter brings great sporting, technical, and private worth. We’re assured his presence will give the group a major increase, bringing renewed vitality, experience, and willpower as we look forward to the problem earlier than us.”

Luna Rossa competing within the thirty seventh America’s Cup. Picture: Ricardo Pinto / America’s Cup

“I’m extremely proud to be becoming a member of Luna Rossa for the thirty eighth America’s Cup,” mentioned Peter Burling.

“I’ve at all times cherished racing towards Luna Rossa and now to hitch this iconic group is an actual honour. The innovation and competitiveness they create to the Cup has at all times impressed me. I’m grateful for the nice and cozy welcome and I’m trying ahead to working laborious alongside a world-class group, doing my half to assist win Luna Rossa’s first America’s Cup.”

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Ryan

Ryan O'Neill is a maritime enthusiast and writer who has a passion for studying and writing about ships and the maritime industry in general. With a deep passion for the sea and all things nautical, Ryan has a plan to unite maritime professionals to share their knowledge and truly connect Sea 2 Shore.

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