Cup in turmoil

AUCKLAND OUT · INEOS OUT · ALINGHI OUT · BURLING LEAVES ETNZ

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The America's Cup is no stranger to factions, fallings out, and legal fights, but the past month has been particularly tumultuous.

First came news that Auckland would not host the 38th America's Cup, despite it being the home port of Cup holders Emirates Team New Zealand, due a lack of funding (see Matt Sheahan's column on page 20 for more).

Next came confirmation that INEOS Britannia would not challenge for the next Cup. The release on 9 April stated: "The decision has been taken after a protracted negotiation with Athena Racing Ltd following the conclusion of the 37th America's Cup in Barcelona."

This follows the split between team boss Sir Jim Ratcliffe and skipper Sir Ben Ainslie in January. The release went on to place the blame with Ainslie's team for their withdrawal:

"The agreement that had been reached with Athena would have allowed both parties to compete in the next Cup, but it depended on a rapid resolution. INEOS Britannia had agreed the substantive terms very quickly, but Athena failed to bring the agreement to a timely conclusion. INEOS Britannia is of the opinion that this six-month delay has undermined its ability to prepare for the next Cup and so has reluctantly withdrawn its challenge."