After the very painful defeat for the New Zealanders in the America's Cup against the Swiss team Alinghi, there is now to be a new challenge for 2007.
The official announcement is expected tomorrow. Grant Dalton is being discussed as the new "team boss". The New Zealander has become famous above all for his victory with the "New Zealand Endeavour" in the Whitbread Round the World Race 93/94 and enjoys the greatest respect in his own country.
One of the main criticisms after this year's unsuccessful campaign is the lack of a strong, central personality in Team New Zealand, as Sir Peter Blake has been for years. Dalton is seen as someone who can fill this gap. He has a lot of experience with large, international campaigns, understands a great deal about design and technology and has excellent global contacts.
"I know that New Zealand is keen for a challenge. A job like this is a great opportunity, and as a true Kiwi it's hard to say no. I'm interested, but nothing has been decided yet," says Dalton.
