MADRID, Oct. 19 (Xinhua) -- Team Emirates New Zealand retained the America's Cup on Saturday after beating rivals INEOS Britannia 7-2 in the first-to-seven series held in the waters off the coast of Barcelona.

The New Zealand yacht went into Saturday's racing with a 6-2 advantage in the most prestigious event in sailing, needing just one more win after claiming clear victories in both of Friday's regattas, and sealed their decisive seventh win at the first attempt.

They have now lifted the last three editions of the America's Cup to cement their status as the best crew in the world.

Following a delay of 40 minutes in the start due to a lack of wind, Emirates New Zealand moved into a narrow lead, which they extended to 19 seconds.

INEOS reduced the lead to a matter of just 25 meters, but midway through the race, Emirates took total control to finish the decisive regatta 37 seconds ahead of their rivals.

"It's a very special feeling and I am very proud of the team. We have had an incredible day in Barcelona," commented Emirates New Zealand skipper Peter Burling, who highlighted the three years of work it had taken to prepare the yacht.

INEOS captain Ben Ainslie had the consolation of taking a British yacht to the America's Cup final for the first time in 60 years and had to congratulate the New Zealand crew.

"All of the merit for them; I have never seen a team that was so good and so much better than everyone else. We will have to wait for another chance," said Ainslie. Enditem

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