America's Cup 2021: All you need to know about today's sailing news

Beyond the Cup - Ineos Team UK Flight Controller Leigh McMillan and Grinder Freddie Carr look back on the failed British campaign, following their premature exit from America's Cup contention. Video / NZ Herald

All the latest news from the America's Cup.

America's Cup postponed

Team New Zealand are going to have to wait a bit longer to begin their defence of the America's Cup.

The start of the America's Cup is being delayed following last night's announcement that Auckland would be in lockdown level 3 for the next week.

The opening races between defender Team New Zealand and challenger Luna Rossa were scheduled to begin on Saturday March 6, with two more races on Sunday.

A statement said racing will not occur before at least the following Wednesday.

Team New Zealand's long wait

Team New Zealand in action. Photo / Michael Craig

Team New Zealand and Luna Rossa will have a few more days to finetune their performances before the start of the America's Cup match.

The delay means it will be at least 80 days between races for Team New Zealand, who have not been in the competitive environment since December 20's Christmas Cup race against Ineos Team UK – which saw neither team able to foil due to light conditions and was ultimately abandoned. Their last completed race was a win against Luna Rossa in the final race of the America's Cup World Series on December 19.

It's a different story for Luna Rossa, however.

Beyond the Cup

Check out the latest episode of Beyond the Cup, the Herald's America's Cup news show. NZME Sports Reporter Matt Brown is joined by Ineos Team UK grinder Freddie Carr and flight controller Leigh McMillan following the British syndicate's defeat in the Prada Cup final against Luna Rossa.

McMillan says they took some time off after their defeat to "decompress" before starting the pack-up process. You can watch the video in your player above.

Heading into the Cup racing?

• Give yourself plenty of time and think about catching a ferry, train or bus to watch the Cup.

• Make sure your AT HOP card is in your pocket. It's the best way to ride.

• Don't forget to scan QR codes with the NZ COVID Tracer app when on public transport and entering the America's Cup Village.

• For more ways to enjoy race day, visit at.govt.nz/americascup.