In a bombshell revelation, Sir Russell Coutts says Christchurch is unlikely to host SailGP again.
The yachting legend, and SailGP chief executive, said a lack of flexibility as well as pressure from minority groups had made Lyttelton a non-viable option.
It was only yesterday the event was officially welcomed back to Christchurch for the second straight year.
Earlier plans for it to be held in Auckland this year were canned due to issues with spectator facilities.
The yachting legend, and SailGP chief executive, said a lack of flexibility and well as pressure from advocacy groups had made Lyttelton a non-viable option. (Source: 1News)
Sir Russell said Lyttelton was a fantastic venue and people in the region engaged with the event, but that wasn’t enough.
"There have been a few entities that really make life difficult for us so, for example, the only dates we can get here next year is February, and they’ve told us they can’t run the event in February. Interestingly they said if it was the end of February like the last day it might be ok, but not before.
"Unfortunately we won’t be here next year and possibly not ever because we need those February dates to fit in with the international calendar."
Sir Russell believed the Lyttelton leg’s become far too complex. When asked who was stopping that date, he said “there’s a few”.
"Like a lot of things in New Zealand these days there’s a few minority groups that have a huge say in what happens and that’s the way it works."
There had been concerns about collisions with endangered Hector’s dolphins - including from the Department of Conservation - and there is now an independent decision maker in place with the ability to halt racing if dolphins get too close.
Sir Russell Coutts says it’s unlikely the event will return to Christchurch, although those out on the water say it’s a good location. (Source: 1News)
It has been revealed at last year’s final race, two dolphins crossed the boundary into the race zone as vessels approached the final marker.
The race director didn’t stop proceedings.
Just yesterday, training had to be scaled back due to sightings.
Dolphin expert Liz Slooten said at this time of year you're "pretty much guaranteed" to see dolphins on the race course.
"I hope they find a good location for this race where there are no endangered dolphins and fewer complications, I’m sure it’ll be in everyone’s benefit," she said.
"It’s a wrong place, wrong time situation and I’m so pleased they’ve come to that conclusion."
Loren Aberhart of Christchurch NZ said they’d done everything they could to make the event work.
"Ultimately the Hector’s dolphin are an incredibly precious taonga to New Zealand and so we need to protect them.
"If we can’t make the timing and schedule work for Ōtautahi Christchurch then it is what it is."
Lyttelton has found favour with the sailors, with Canada’s Phil Robertson expressing his happiness with the location.
"It’s such a great venue, amazing scenery, perfect spectating opportunities for locals and people travelling down to Christchurch to watch as well, and great wind, so a massive tick in my book," he said.
"Maybe we could go to Auckland and other venues at some point, but the more here the better."
Christchurch mayor Phil Mauger said he’d be disappointed to lose the event and they’d move "heaven and earth" to make sure everyone’s happy.
Regardless, SailGP won’t be in Lyttelton in 2025, with Auckland likely to be confirmed soon. There were other spots in New Zealand Sir Russell said could host in the future as well.
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