Yachting: Coutts tipping Team NZ in final

Former Team New Zealand and Alinghi skipper Russell Coutts believes Team New Zealand has the better boat heading into the Louis Vuitton Cup final with Luna Rossa.

Coutts said the black boat looks good for the light Valencia conditions, with a distinct advantage in downwind boat speed.

He is confident if the sailing team get it right, the Italians will have their work cut out for them when racing starts.

Coutts said if Dean Barker and the crew at the back of the boat sail as well as everyone knows they can, then they will be more than a match for Luna Rossa.

He also believes Team New Zealand has the edge in terms of equipment and personnel.

The first race of the best of nine series is set to start early Saturday morning New Zealand time.

- NEWSTALK ZB