Keen but slam Team NZ plan
as a century ago,’’ Culver said.
‘‘We are hopeful that the rules for the next match will allow the club to compete once again, and will put the competition on the road towards regaining its place alongside the Olympics and the World Cup of Football as one of the world’s most popular and successful sporting events.’’
Culver felt Auckland 2021 had been a step in the right direction, congratulating the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron and Team New Zealand on their win.
‘‘It was a memorable competition, sailed in the remarkable AC75 yachts, and it reinforced why the America’s Cup remains a singular trophy in the world of sport. I also want to thank the people of New Zealand, led by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, for successfully hosting this competition during such a challenging time. I was privileged to be in New Zealand to witness it in person.’’
Culver said that after two decades away, the New York Yacht Club had spent time working on a ‘‘draft protocol’’ to move the regatta forward in case they were successful in Auckland. They had circulated this paper amongst the four teams and other stakeholders, saying it was ‘‘well-received’’.
They were pleased some of their thoughts and hopes had been incorporated in the new protocol drawn up by Team New Zealand and Team UK.
These included the stronger nationality rules, a commitment to multiple cycles in the same boat, a more powerful event authority and cost-reduction measures.