A Japanese challenger has been confirmed for the next America's Cup yachting regatta in 2017 in Bermuda.
SoftBank Corporation's joining with the Kansai Yacht Club as SoftBank Team Japan, and they'll also compete in this year's America's Cup World Series events.
Former Team New Zealand skipper Dean Barker has been linked to the Japanese challenge, although no details have been released of who will helm or crew the boat.
Dean Barker's been reported to be a part of the new Japanese syndicate Photo: RNZ
Holders Oracle are providing a base level of technical assistance to the Japanese syndicate, and America's Cup Commercial Commissioner Harvey Schiller says the team is a very positive addition.
"The Japanese challenge will increase interest in the America's Cup across Asia which is good news for all of our teams and partners," Schiller says.
