Peter Burling awards America's Cup e-Series winner

New Zealand takes first and second at the America's Cup e-Series: Liam Dimock triumphs in the first edition of the virtual challenge, second places goes to fellow kiwi Wooldridge

Elena Giolai/SLAM

The America's Cup concluded its first esports season with the thrilling America's Cup e-Series final which took place in Barcelona, where New Zealand's Liam Dimock (aka eSailingCentral, 14) claimed the title of e-Series champion. Dimock won the coveted e-Series trophy along with €25,000 (approx. NZD 44,000) in prize money, overcoming a close competition right until the last race.

It was a crazy experience. The Grand Final was exciting all the way to the last race,” commented Liam, expressing his enthusiasm for the event and the chance to sail an AC40. Dimock was awarded the prize directly by Emirates Team New Zealand champion and skipper Peter Burling, which added a special prestige to the awards ceremony. New Zealand achieved an extraordinary double victory in this first major virtual America's Cup event, with Liam Dimock in first place and compatriot Robbie Wooldridge (aka Booshify, 19) claiming a close second.

AC e-Series

Their journey, however, does not stop here: the two young New Zealanders will take part in the “Gamer to Sailor” experience, an intensive training session both on the simulator and in the water, culminating in a race on an AC40 against a UniCredit Youth America's Cup team.

The America's Cup e-Series has demonstrated the appeal of virtual sailing, attracting new fans from across the world and offering a unique connection between the digital and real worlds.