ETNZ - Taihoro is ready to fly again

Emirates Team New Zealand officially relaunched their AC75, Taihoro, in front of friends, families, sponsors, and long-time supporters at the Wynyard Point base in Auckland. This event marked a significant progression in the team’s Louis Vuitton 38th America’s Cup campaign, with Taihoro set to sail again as a high-tech evolution aimed at achieving a historic fourth consecutive victory in Naples in 2027.

The relaunch celebrated not only the revitalisation of Taihoro but also the enduring partnership with Toyota, announced to continue its sponsorship that has spanned 34 years and 10 America’s Cup campaigns. Toyota has evolved from a brand on a sail to a crucial technical collaborator within the team.

Emirates Team New Zealand CEO Grant Dalton expressed pride in the milestone, highlighting the extensive behind-the-scenes effort contributing to the team’s innovation and technology focus. COO Kevin Shoebridge noted that Taihoro ‘2.0’ represents a significant advancement from the previous iteration seen in Barcelona, with relentless development set to continue until the event in July 2027.

The stellar partnership was honoured with a blessing ceremony conducted by Iwi Manaaki Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, reinforcing the vessel’s significance in connecting the elements of sky and earth.

Despite being the same hull that dominated in Barcelona, Taihoro has undergone a significant refit to comply with the new rules for the Louis Vuitton 38th America’s Cup. The design team worked within strict cost-containment measures, which limited modifications to three specific categories: cockpit reconfiguration, structural rebuilds, and functional rebates. According to Dan Bernasconi, Head of Design, while hull performance appears similar across teams, gains in performance are attainable through advancements in foils, sails, and control systems.

A notable transformation involves the replacement of the iconic cyclors with a standardised battery system, shifting the focus to digital management of sail and foil controls. This change alters the dynamics of crew roles and responsibilities, creating a more fluid structure with significant individual accountability.

Nathan Outteridge, skipper of the team, acknowledged the excitement surrounding the new crew dynamics and the evolution of roles with a mix of young talent and experience. Olympic medallist Jo Aleh is poised to make history as the first woman to crew an AC75, marking a significant step towards inclusivity in the America’s Cup.

As Taihoro prepares for its next phase in testing, Auckland and America’s Cup enthusiasts can expect to see the AC75 regularly on the water, beginning an intensive testing phase before the upcoming Preliminary Regatta in Cagliari, Sardinia, on 21–24 May 2026.

Stay tuned for more updates and developments as Emirates Team New Zealand gears up for an exciting campaign in the lead up to the 38th America’s Cup.