The man who ripped away Team New Zealand's core and then broke Kiwi hearts in 2003 is backing Peter Burling and his crew to bring the cup back home.
Ernesto Bertarelli spearheaded Team Alinghi's America's Cup win over Black Magic in 2003, with the help of Kiwis Sir Russell Coutts and Brad Butterworth.
The heavily funded Swiss challenge was too much for Dean Barker and the Kiwi boat, who were thrashed 5-0 in the City of Sails.
The 51-year-old has been a notable observer in Bermuda and has left no doubt as to who he would like to see win.
"I am supporting Team New Zealand," the Italian born Swiss national told Sunday Sport on RadioLIVE.
"They are innovative, they are young and once again they have proven the ability to get to the top with a very innovative boat.
"Kiwis should be proud of their team."
The New Zealand crew lead the 2017 edition of the race for the Auld Mug, taking a 4-1 lead after six races in the first to seven battle.
Bertarelli's involvement in the Cup came to an end in 2010 after a court battle with Oracle Team USA that led to a one-off race that the American's cleaned up comfortably, backed by billionaire owner Larry Ellison.
He was left frustrated by the legal battles and pulled his support from the event, but feels strongly that Oracle have adjusted the rules to allow them to be more competitive.
"Winning twice, and then having to face such a difficult challenge in 2010 off the water with a lot of arguments had me wanting to race elsewhere," Bertarelli said.
"Last weekend they (Team New Zealand) showed a demonstration in speed, but once again the format favours the defender.
"They (Oracle) were able to copy the setup of Team New Zealand with the five-day break.
"Had the racing continued through the week I think New Zealand would have the cup by now."
The billionaire businessman might not be done with the America's Cup just yet. Despite his disgust at how the event is run, Bertarelli loves the current multi-hull format and a Team New Zealand win could see him back on the water in Auckland.
"I think the stars will need to be aligned. I have to say that my family love New Zealand. We moved our entire family there for a year. I have a lot of friends within Team New Zealand."
And would he be tempted to throw some money at members of Team New Zealand's crew?
"No, I wouldn't do that again"
Newshub.
