Ben Ainslie on Mission for America's Cup

At 47, Sir Ben Ainslie stands out as the only skipper in the America’s Cup competition in Barcelona who also serves as the team principal for INEOS Britannia. With a decade of experience since the inception of the team, Ainslie is determined to dethrone the reigning champions, Team New Zealand. His illustrious career, recognized by his appointment as Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 2009, has made him a prominent figure in the sailing community. Reflecting on his past successes, Ainslie expressed that winning the America’s Cup with Oracle in 2013 was a deeply rewarding experience, emphasizing the importance of teamwork over individual accolades. This realization has driven him to take on a dual role in management and sailing, believing that his leadership is crucial for the existence of a British team in the competition. He acknowledges the challenges ahead but remains focused on the goal of winning the Cup. Ainslie noted that the America’s Cup requires continuous commitment, as winning entails hosting the next event. He views this as a desirable challenge, but stresses that the immediate priority is securing victory. He attributes success in the sport to hard work and dedication, recognizing that the most successful teams, like Team New Zealand and Luna Rossa, have been in the game the longest. As the competition heats up, Ainslie and his team are fully committed to pushing their limits, aware that external factors, including weather conditions, will also play a significant role in their performance.