Emirates GBR finished fourth at the ITM New Zealand Sail Grand Prix, the result puts the Team well in the hunt for that million-dollar San Francisco Grand Finale in May, as they sit one just point behind France in fourth overall.

“It’s so tight going into the final, narrowing down one point that we did this weekend was so important ahead of San Francisco. There’s still so much to play for ahead of the final in May – we haven’t won an event yet this season, so if there’s a time to do it, it’s the final.

“It’s great to see Canada come away with a win today, they thoroughly deserved that. They had a great start off the line in the final and that’s key in SailGP and they went on to sail a brilliant race.

First time in Christchurch and it’s been an incredible with beautiful sailing conditions. It was wonderful to see so many spectators come out and being so knowledgeable as well – it’s clear New Zealanders love their sport and their sailing.” – Ben Ainslie