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New Zealand sailing ace and America's Cup icon Peter Burling has confirmed he is joining rivals Luna Rossa for the 38th edition of the competition.
The three-time America’s Cup winner and long-time Emirates Team New Zealand helmsman will join the Italian syndicate's core leadership and development group, although his exact on-water role remains undefined.
His signing marks a significant coup for the Italians, as Burling brings a formidable blend of sailing talent, technical insight, and insider knowledge of the AC75 class.
"I'm excited to be joining Luna Rossa for the 38th America's Cup," Burling said in a statement. "I've always loved racing against Luna Rossa, and now to join this iconic team is a real honour. This is an amazing opportunity to keep pushing myself at the highest level of the sport, while continuing to lead the Black Foils and support the work we’re doing with Live Ocean at home. Thank you everyone for your support."
Burling’s switch follows his departure from Team New Zealand earlier this year, after he and the defender were unable to reach an agreement for another Cup cycle. His move is likely to send ripples through the sailing world, not only for its symbolic weight, crossing the divide from long-time Cup champions to one of their most determined challengers, but also for the strategic advantage his experience offers Luna Rossa.
Luna Rossa chief executive Max Sirena said the team was thrilled to have Burling on board.
"We are excited to welcome Peter Burling. We are sure that his presence will give an important boost to the whole team. Even though his exact role has yet to be defined, he will certainly be part of the sailing team, reinforcing Luna Rossa’s core leadership group and contributing to key areas of our development programme.
"Peter has been our long-time adversary and over the years we have had the opportunity to appreciate both his extraordinary sailing talent and his fairness and sportsmanship in competition. Peter brings great sporting, technical and human value and we are certain that his presence will be an important boost to the entire team, infusing new energy, experience and determination in view of the challenge that lies ahead."
Burling, 34, has been an integral figure in modern America's Cup history, having helped secure New Zealand’s victories in 2017, 2021 and 2024. Although the upcoming Cup protocol is expected to prevent sailors from switching nations on the water within a single cycle, Burling's two campaigns on the AC75 and his deep involvement in both design and strategy make him a powerful behind-the-scenes asset.
Luna Rossa is entering a new era, with long-time skipper Jimmy Spithill stepping away from Cup competition after the team’s Challenger Series final loss in Barcelona last year. Burling’s addition comes as the Italians look to build momentum toward a home campaign in Naples in 2027.
On a personal note, Burling said the move was also about embracing a new experience with his young family. “Lucinda and I are excited for this adventure and to experience life in Italy with our daughter, Paloma. The opportunity to immerse ourselves in Italian culture is a special one for our family."
