Great Britain is preparing to compete with two challengers in the upcoming America’s Cup after INEOS Britannia and Sir Ben Ainslie decided to go their separate ways.
During the last America’s Cup event in Barcelona, INEOS and Sir Ben joined forces. Sir Ben and his team triumphed over Italy in the Louis Vuitton Cup series to secure a spot in the main event against defenders Emirates Team New Zealand, marking the first time since 1964 that they faced off.
INEOS has announced its intention to participate in the 38th America’s Cup with a challenge under the banner of INEOS Britannia.
However, a statement revealed that INEOS Britannia and Sir Ben failed to reach an agreement on continuing their partnership after the conclusion of the 37th America’s Cup in Barcelona.
Dave Endean has been appointed as the CEO of INEOS Britannia, bringing a wealth of experience in sailing and the America’s Cup to the team.
“This plan raises significant legal and practical obstacles for them that will play out in the coming days and weeks.”
Sir Ben Ainslie
Responding to the news, Sir Ben expressed his surprise, stating, “The British Challenger for the 38th America’s Cup, led by Sir Ben Ainslie, was astounded to read today’s statement from INEOS and Mercedes F1 regarding their planned challenge for the 38th America’s Cup.”
He highlighted that the new plan presents substantial legal and practical challenges that will need to be addressed in the near future.
Sir Ben’s British America’s Cup team will now be known as Athena Racing, aligning with the British Women’s and Youth America’s Cup team, the Athena Pathway.
In 2007, Sir Ben took on the role of skipper for a British challenger, and in the recent event in Barcelona, he came closer to victory than ever before.
Shortly after the conclusion of the last race, the Royal Yacht Squadron of Great Britain submitted a challenge, which was accepted by the winners in Barcelona, the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron.
Setting New Standards for British Sailing
Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the chairman of INEOS, expressed his pride in the accomplishments in Barcelona, where a competitive British boat was developed after decades. This achievement set new standards for British sailing by winning the Louis Vuitton Cup for the first time and challenging the Defender in the finals like never before in 90 years.
Looking ahead to the 38th America’s Cup, INEOS is focused on building on this success through their challenge, with a team of 100 scientists and engineers already dedicated to designing their AC38 yacht.
INEOS plans to leverage the design and technology expertise of the Mercedes F1 Team under the leadership of technical director James Allison.
Further details about the INEOS Britannia challenge will be revealed in the near future.
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