New Zealand

Black Foils · New Zealand

Championship position
12
Points
8
Home base
Auckland, New Zealand
Founded
2021

Recent Achievements

2021 — Team Launch

Black Foils enter SailGP led by legendary America's Cup winners Peter Burling and Blair Tuke.

2022 — Season 2 Debut

Peter Burling and crew complete their first SailGP campaign, finishing fifth in Season 2.

2023 — Podium Contenders

Black Foils establish themselves as regular podium challengers with consistent top finishes.

2024 — Championship Battle

Fierce rivalry with Spain pushes the team to new heights in Season 4.

2026 — Chasing a Maiden Title

Perennial contenders, the Black Foils enter Season 6 still hunting a first SailGP championship after several near-misses.

Team Members

Peter Burling — Co-CEO & Driver

Olympic gold medalist and America's Cup winner leading the Black Foils.

Peter Burling is one of the greatest sailors of his generation. An Olympic gold medalist (Rio 2016, 49er) and two-time America's Cup winner with Emirates Team New Zealand, Burling brought his championship pedigree to SailGP as Co-CEO and Driver of the Black Foils. He has driven the Black Foils to multiple event wins and podium finishes while chasing a maiden season title. His aggressive racing style and tactical brilliance make him one of the most formidable drivers on the circuit.

Blair Tuke — Co-CEO & Wing Trimmer

Olympic gold medalist and Peter's legendary racing partner.

Blair Tuke is Peter Burling's long-time racing partner and one of the most accomplished sailors in New Zealand history. Together they won Olympic gold at Rio 2016 in the 49er class and back-to-back America's Cups with Emirates Team New Zealand. As Co-CEO and Wing Trimmer, Tuke's precision wing control and strategic insight are essential to the Black Foils' success. Their telepathic partnership on the water is unmatched in sailing.

Leo Takahashi — Flight Controller

Rising Kiwi talent managing the F50's complex flight systems.

Leo Takahashi is a talented young New Zealand sailor who has risen through the ranks to become Flight Controller for the Black Foils. His precise management of foil rake and cant keeps the F50 flying stable at extreme speeds. Takahashi represents the next generation of Kiwi sailing talent, learning from legends while contributing to the team's championship campaign.

Liv Mackay — Strategist

Elite female strategist providing race-winning tactical calls.

Liv Mackay is a highly accomplished New Zealand sailor who serves as Strategist for the Black Foils. With extensive match racing and fleet racing experience, Mackay provides the tactical calls that help position the team for success. Her ability to read race situations and communicate effectively with Burling and Tuke makes her an invaluable member of the championship crew.

Louis Sinclair — Grinder

Powerful grinder delivering championship-caliber hydraulic power.

Louis Sinclair is a dedicated grinder who generates essential hydraulic power for the Black Foils. His consistent output enables rapid sail adjustments and smooth maneuvers that have contributed to New Zealand's championship success. Sinclair brings both power and professionalism to the team.

Marcus Hansen — Grinder

Experienced grinder bringing power and racing expertise to the team.

Marcus Hansen is an experienced sailor and grinder who provides essential hydraulic power for the Black Foils. With professional sailing experience and strong racing instincts, Hansen contributes both physical power and tactical awareness to the championship-winning crew.