Emirates Team New Zealand has been officially recognised as the 2025 World Sailing Team of the Year, a distinguished honour celebrating the team’s unwavering pursuit of excellence, innovation, and unity both on and off the water.
The award comes on the heels of the team’s historic third consecutive America’s Cup victory in Barcelona in 2024 — a feat that further cements their legacy as one of the most successful and respected teams in the event’s history.
“This recognition is especially meaningful to us because it is not about any one individual. It is about the strength of the team,” said Kevin Shoebridge, COO of Emirates Team New Zealand. “Every single person in our organisation, from the sailors to the designers, the boatbuilders, the shore crew, and the families who support us, plays a crucial role in what we achieve together. This award belongs to all of them.”
The World Sailing Team of the Year Award celebrates collective excellence — a principle deeply rooted in Emirates Team New Zealand’s culture. Built on collaboration, respect, and relentless ambition, the team’s approach continues to redefine standards in high-performance sailing.
In accepting the award, Emirates Team New Zealand also paid tribute to the other nominees, highlighting the depth of passion and dedication that fuels the sport. Among them was Dani A Pich, the inspirational blind sailor from Yes We Sail, who earned global admiration for his solo circumnavigation of the Isle of Wight earlier this year. Emirates Team New Zealand supported Pich and his team during the America’s Cup campaign in Barcelona, reinforcing their ongoing commitment to inclusivity and accessibility in sailing.
“We are very proud to stand alongside nominees who embody the best of what sailing represents: skill, perseverance, and sportsmanship,” said Grant Dalton, CEO of Emirates Team New Zealand. “Dani A Pich’s story, and the example he sets for sailors everywhere, reminds us why we do what we do. This award reflects the collective spirit of the sailing community.”
Looking ahead, Emirates Team New Zealand remains focused on advancing the limits of design, performance, and teamwork, while continuing to represent New Zealand’s spirit of innovation and excellence on the global stage.
