Mark Orams: AUT Sailing Professor on the dropped bid to host the America's Cup in Auckland

Auckland's chance of hosting the next America's Cup has gone the way of the wind. 

Auckland Unlimited confirmed yesterday that the city is unable to proceed with its bid for the 2027 event, as the Government isn’t contributing any funding.  

AUT Sailing Professor and former world champion sailor, Mark Orams told Kerre Woodham that the professionalisation of sport has resulted in finances playing a more significant role when it comes to decision making. 

He says New Zealand lagged behind the trend as much of our sport remained amateur, but sailing has now caught up to the transition. 

“The days of hosting the America’s Cup or having Team New Zealand sponsored by a family of five New Zealand sponsors are now gone.” 

“The costs associated with both mounting a competitive campaign and hosting a major international sporting event are just beyond our ability to fund within New Zealand.” 

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