From mastering local estuary waters to commanding high-speed hydrofoils, Peter Burling has redefined modern sailing.
Discover the extraordinary journey of New Zealand’s triple America’s Cup winner and Olympic gold medalist, covering his dominance with the Black Foils in SailGP, career milestones, net worth, and life off the water.
Brief overview of Peter Burling’s career in motorsport
Peter Burling is a well-known New Zealand sailor who rose from local club racing to leading Emirates Team New Zealand to America’s Cup victories in 2017 (Bermuda) and 2021 (Auckland), and successfully defending the Cup again in 2024 in Barcelona.
He formed a long-standing partnership with Blair Tuke in the Olympic 49er class and later became the driver of the New Zealand SailGP Team. Burling is a three-time Olympic medalist and is widely regarded as one of New Zealand’s most accomplished modern sailors.
Peter Burling’s age, family and early life
Peter Burling was born on January 1, 1991, in Tauranga, New Zealand. He grew up near the Welcome Bay estuary, where sailing quickly became part of his daily life. His parents encouraged his interest in the sport, and by age eight he had joined the Tauranga Yacht Club and began racing competitively. He attended Tauranga Boys College and balanced school with training days before moving to Auckland for studies.
How did Peter Burling get to SailGP?
After proving himself at the highest level in the America’s Cup, Peter Burling entered SailGP at its launch in 2019 as the driver of the New Zealand SailGP Team. Working closely with Blair Tuke, he helped establish the team’s identity, later branded the Black Foils. Strong early results in places like Sydney and San Francisco showed he was one of the standout helmsmen in the series.
Notable moments and races in Peter Burling’s career
One of Burling’s defining moments came at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games, where he and Blair Tuke won gold in the 49er class. The pair also claimed multiple 49er World Championship titles between 2013 and 2019.
Burling then steered Emirates Team New Zealand to America’s Cup victories in Bermuda (2017), Auckland (2021), and Barcelona (2024).
Peter Burling height: How tall is Peter Burling?
Peter Burling is approximately 6 feet 1 inch (185 cm) tall.
What is Peter Burling’s net worth?
Peter Burling’s exact net worth has not been publicly disclosed. However, through America’s Cup contracts, SailGP earnings, sponsorships, endorsements, and long-term professional sailing roles, he has built a strong financial profile over more than a decade at the top of the sport.
As of 2026, industry estimates suggest his net worth is in the multi-million-dollar range, though precise figures are unconfirmed.
Peter Burling’s relationship status: Who is Peter Burling’s wife?
Peter Burling married his longtime partner Lucinda Nelson on March 4, 2023, during a private ceremony on the Coromandel Peninsula on New Zealand’s North Island. Friends and teammates from Emirates Team New Zealand and the SailGP circuit were in attendance.
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Cover Photo via Jason Ludlow for SailGP
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