America's Cup helmsman Peter Burling will be missing from the Sportsman of the Year category at this year's Halberg Awards, according to reports.
The 26-year-old played a huge role in guiding Team New Zealand to glory in Bermuda in June, where they claimed they claimed the Auld Mug after beating Team USA 8-1.
Burling was also the youngest winning helmsman in the 166-year history of the America's Cup.
However, Team New Zealand does not want him elevated above the team and he won't be a finalist for Sportsman of the Year at the Halberg Awards, Stuff reports.
The Halberg Awards are held every year to recognise New Zealand's top sporting achievement over the previous 12 months.
"As much we - from a yachting perspective - would like to see Pete recognised as well... we respect Team New Zealand's view on that," Yachting New Zealand chief executive David Abercrombie told Stuff.
"They're not going to budge on it. What I then have to do is talk to Pete. I am sure he will understand."
It is understood Team New Zealand have been nominated for Team of the Year.
The full list of Halberg Award nominees will be released on Tuesday.
Newshub.
