Barker Goes to Japanese AC Team

Kiwi Dean Barker, who was dumped as skipper for Emirates Team New Zealand in February, has been picked up by the America’s Cup Japanese challenger, SoftBank Team Japan. Barker will serve as skipper and CEO of the new team.

"This is an incredible opportunity to build a new team from the ground up,” Barker said from Bermuda. "It’s an honor to take on the responsibility of both CEO and skipper. We’re filling the key roles on the team as quickly as we can. I think we’re pulling together a very strong team. Our goal is to win the America’s Cup."

SoftBank Team Japan was confirmed as a challenger earlier this month. The team is now focusing on preparations for the first America’s Cup World Series event in Portsmouth on July 24-26. See www.americascup.com.