Obstructed view

The tense relationship between Team New Zealand and challenger of record Luna Rossa has reached boiling point after Emirates Team New Zealand released an explosive statement following a decision by the America’s Cup Arbitration Panel to rule out two of the five courses that were planned for the event.

The ruling overnight effectively cancels the use of the inner harbour stadium race courses for all racing of the Prada Cup and America’s Cup Match.

The two courses, which were set to see racing take place off North Head and Narrow Neck, are two areas where fans could watch the event from land.

Emirates Team New Zealand said they were “outraged” that after three years of planning a land-based stadium event, the Challenger of Record Luna Rossa “led a campaign through the Arbitration Panel which has destroyed one of the most exciting benefits of the America’s Cup event for the people of Auckland and visitors from throughout New Zealand.”