Without doubt, a thrilling clash awaits. New Zealand is the reigning champion and will defend the America's Cup in 2027. And now, with Peter Burling — a three-time America’s Cup winner with Emirates Team New Zealand — joining the Italian challenger Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli, the pieces are in place for a seismic storyline: Burling, sailing for Italy, could end up battling and potentially defeating the very team he once led to victory.
So, will the Kiwis regret letting Burling go, and choosing to defend the Cup on Italian soil? We’ll have to wait until spring–summer 2027 to find out.
Just two months ago, the New Zealand helmsman and Emirates Team New Zealand announced their split after over a decade of collaboration and success. Following weeks of speculation about his next move, Luna Rossa confirmed the high-profile signing of the Kiwi sailing star.
Peter Burling, born in 1991 and one of the most influential sailors of recent times, now joins the Italian challenge for the 38th edition of the America’s Cup, set to take place in Naples. The move underlines Luna Rossa’s ambition to finally secure their long-awaited victory — this time, on home soil.
“We’re delighted to welcome Peter Burling to Luna Rossa,” said Max Sirena, Luna Rossa’s Team Director. “Peter has long been a formidable rival, and we have always admired both his exceptional sailing skills and sportsmanship. Although his precise role is still being finalised, he will certainly be part of the sailing team and contribute to key areas of development. His experience, energy and competitive mindset will bring enormous value to our group.”
Burling himself expressed his enthusiasm at joining the Italian syndicate: “I’m genuinely excited to begin this new chapter with Luna Rossa. Competing against them has always been inspiring, and now I have the unique opportunity to contribute from within to such an ambitious project. I will do everything in my power to help the team achieve its ultimate goal: winning the America’s Cup for the very first time.”
With Burling in the line-up, Luna Rossa has made a strong statement, demonstrating their determination to innovate not only in crew but also in technology and technical development. On 10 June, the team announced a strategic partnership with the iconic Italian marque Alfa Romeo, which becomes official sponsor through to the end of 2027 — when the America’s Cup will conclude in Naples.
“There is a natural affinity between Luna Rossa and Alfa Romeo,” said Max Sirena. “Deep roots, Italian heritage, a sporting spirit, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. We even share a signature colour — red. Our partnership is built on shared values and continues to strengthen.”
With Burling at the helm and Alfa Romeo alongside, Luna Rossa is embarking on its most ambitious campaign yet, determined to make history on home soil.
With the addition of Peter Burling — not just another crew member, but a central figure in modern America’s Cup history — Italy’s prospects of achieving this historic feat have not only increased, but entered an entirely new dimension. Burling’s ability to perform under pressure, combined with his tactical intelligence, will be crucial in accelerating preparation times and mounting a serious title challenge.
That said, another fundamental consideration is the presence of Italian fans and the competition’s location in Naples. The Bagnoli area, where the sailing hub will be located, is already undergoing regeneration — a strategic spot, close to Castel dell’Ovo and Posillipo, where the racing will unfold. The crew will benefit from the warmth and passionate support for which Neapolitan fans are known, in a city steeped in maritime tradition.
Anticipations of excitement will certainly grow, as the fascinating New Zealand-born icon and former central figure of Emirates Team New Zealand now defends Italian colours on the world stage with Luna Rossa.
So the real story isn’t just that Peter Burling has left Team New Zealand. The real story is this: what happens if he’s the one who takes the Cup from them?
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