'Bit of a stupid comment': America's Cup skipper takes R-rated swipe at commentator
This article originally appeared on Stuff and is reproduced with permission.
UK sailor Sir Ben Ainslie has unleashed his anger at a Kiwi commentator following a post-race interview after his team lost with a 3-0 deficit in the 37th America's Cup on Sunday.
Ainslie was caught on camera referring to commentator Stephen McIvor as a "f----ing wanker".
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The source of Ainslie's frustration was somewhat unclear, the Daily Telegraph reported.
However, the tension heightened after a near-collision during the pre-start, which resulted in a costly penalty for the British team. New Zealand ultimately triumphed in race three by a margin of 52 seconds.
After the race, the customary interviews took place, featuring the crew from both boats.
Team Ineos Britannia Skipper Sir Ben Ainslie looks on ahead of the America's Cup. Getty
As McIvor wrapped up his time with Ainslie, he posed a pointed question: "Still believe that you're as close [to New Zealand] when it comes to performance? Because I get that feeling coming off your boat."
Whether intentional or not, McIvor's comment seemed to strike a nerve, prompting Ainslie to respond, "Maybe that's the Kiwi commentator in you, mate."
As he stood to leave, his microphone still active, he was heard muttering off camera, "f----ing w----".
When later asked if he realised his mic was still on, Ainslie replied, "possibly", The Telegraph reported.
He further elaborated, "I just thought it was a bit of a stupid comment from the Kiwi commentator.
"But I think it's good for our team, you know? It's good motivation."
Ainslie has a reputation for losing his cool during competitions. In the past, he was disqualified from a world championship in Perth after boarding a media boat and confronting a photographer.
Notably, during the London 2012 Olympics, he accused competitors Jonas-High Christensen and Pieter-Jan Postma of "ganging up" on him with an unwarranted penalty call.
