Three-time America’s Cup winner Blair Tuke will take on an off-the-water leadership role as Team New Zealand builds towards its 2027 defence, tacking away from sailing duties.
His shift comes following the departure of long-time helmsman Peter Burling, marking a significant changing of the guard within the defender’s ranks.
Tuke will not race at next week's America's Cup Preliminary Regatta in Sardinia, instead moving into an executive and strategic position with a focus on the speed development of Taihoro — the team’s AC75 — and sharpening overall sailing performance.
Read more: TVNZ the new home of America’s Cup defence
The Olympic gold medallist said in a statement the shift marked a new phase in his career as the team hunts for a fourth consecutive America's Cup victory in Naples.
"From a personal perspective, I am really excited by the challenge of transitioning into another phase of my career within a team I have had such success with," he said.
"The team as a whole is under no illusions as to how tough a 4th straight defence will be, so playing my part and utilising my experience will hopefully continue to contribute to its ongoing success."
The regatta would be held in Cagliari from May 21-24.
Emirates Team NZ would race two AC40s in the eight-boat fleet on the Gulf of Angels.
The senior entry features skipper Nathan Outteridge sharing helming duties with Seb Menzies, alongside experienced trimmers Andy Maloney and Iain Jensen — a combination blending proven race craft with speed.
"Having two boats on the start line allows us to push our internal standards higher than ever," Outteridge said.
“Our goal is to stay clean through the fleet races and ensure we are at least one of the two boats standing for the match race final.”
Alongside them, the Emirates Team New Zealand Women & Youth crew — helmed by Erica Dawson and Jake Pye with Serena Woodall and Josh Armit trimming — will get a rare chance to test themselves against the world’s best.
“We aren’t just here to fill a spot on the grid; we are here to challenge the fleet and prove the strength of the New Zealand programme,” Dawson said.
The morning's headlines in 90 seconds, including Winston Peters fires back amid superannuation debate, the Māori Queen meets Prince William, and Sir Rod Stewart’s serve at Donald Trump. (Source: Breakfast)
SHARE ME