Russell Coutts, part of the New Zealand team that won and successfully defended the Cup in 1995 and 2000, has said that be believes Sir Keith is the man to guide Britain to success in a competition that it has failed so far to make much impression in.

 

"I haven't seen a cohesive British team in the America's Cup for the last 20 years but I think Keith Mills seems to be the sort of guy to put together an excellent programme," said Coutts in an interview published with Yachting World published today.

 

"Just look at his track record it's pretty inspiring.

 

"It would be great to see a British team in the Cup, a well-organised team in the Cup. All the elements are there; great designers, great sailors and great sponsors and plenty of funding opportunities."

 

Sir Keith, 56, who was chief executive of London's successful bid for the 2012 Olympics, is to put in his own money initially in the hope of winning the 2009 or 2011 competitions.

 

The keen amateur sailor launched the bid last month.