Latest Mean Machine launched

Peter de Ridder's latest boat christened in Valencia

It’s been five months of intensive building, five weeks of travelling, and a few very long days of getting to know the boat… but finally Peter de Ridder’s new TP52 Mean Machine has been launched.

The Emirates Team New Zealand base in Valencia, where the new boat has been undergoing final assembly, has been a hub of activity. Boat Captain Chris Reid and TP52 tactician Ray Davies have been overseeing the process, along with the support of the rest of the Mean Machine team who are all now in Valencia.

The christening of the new Mean Machine TP52 was made by team founder and skipper Peter de Ridder, who smashed the famous bottle of champagne for luck across the boat’s bow.

The ceremony saw assembled the entire Mean Machine team including the designers, official team suppliers and many friends, family and fans of the Mean Machine team, eager to share this very special moment for the team.

For this international team from five different nations, this is the first time they have chosen to launch a new member of their extended family of yachting in Spain. By choosing Valencia de Ridder and team are thanking Spain for all of the support over the last few years and for always giving the team such a warm welcome. Spain is also the location for the start of the Audi MedCup Circuit next week in Alicante.

Dutchman Peter de Ridder’s new boat, designed by Rolf Vrolijk, is facing some tough training and preparation sessions ahead of the boat’s first challenge… the Alicante Trophy, the first event to be scored in the prestigious Audi MedCup Circuit.