This article is more than 5 years old

This article is more than 5 years old

The most successful sailor in Olympic Games history is to join forces with Formula One’s most decorated designer in a bid to win the America’s Cup.

The quadruple gold medallist Ben Ainslie and Adrian Newey, who has helped several F1 teams win numerous drivers’ and constructors’ titles over the years, are to pool their considerable expertise for the 2017 race.

The 37-year-old yachtsman formed Ben Ainslie Racing in December last year and a month later the 37-year-old confirmed his intention to target sailing’s top trophy, which has never been in British hands since the race started in 1851.

During the recent F1 season, Red Bull said Newey would be taking a backseat in his role as the chief technical officer, and instead focus on a new position as the head of Red Bull Advanced Technologies.

BAR are to work with RBAT on the America’s Cup project to draw on the latter’s expertise and knowledge.

A joint statement read: “Founded on the group’s impressive F1 DNA, which has resulted in eight Formula One world championships in the last five seasons, RBAT excels in advanced simulation and mathematical modelling.

“RBAT will apply its simulation and modelling skills to assist Ben Ainslie Racing in various areas of their campaign, as BAR aims to bring the America’s Cup home to Britain.”

Ainslie added: “BAR are really excited to be partnering with Red Bull Advanced Technologies. We are in a unique position in this country, and this campaign is about assimilating the very best of British in design and engineering – RBAT epitomises this.”