SIR BEN AINSLIE called a commentator a “f***ing w****r” following a terse interview.
The British sailing legend is currently competing at the America’s Cup in Barcelona.
With his Ineos Britannia team trailing Emirates New Zealand 3-0, Ainslie was not in the best of moods.
Immediately after his team’s latest defeat, Ainslie was asked by commentator Stephen McIvor: “Still believe that you’re as close when it comes to performance?
“Because I get that feeling coming off your boat.”
He then took a long pause before replying: “Maybe that’s the Kiwi commentator in you, mate.”
Ainslie, 47, then laughed ruefully as he got up.
McIvor replied: “I’ll take that one on the chin, buddy.”
With his mic still live, Ainslie was then heard appearing to call McIvor a “f***ing w****r”.
Ineos had just been beaten by 52 seconds, having been slapped with a penalty following a near-collision in the race pre-start.
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Ainslie was later quizzed if he knew his mic was still on when he made the X-rated comment.
“Possibly…” he admitted, before continuing: “I just thought it was a bit of a stupid comment from the Kiwi commentator.
“But I think it’s good for our team, you know? It’s good motivation.”
Yesterday, Ineos fell to a 4-0 deficit, following another defeat in Barcelona.
Races 5 and 6 are scheduled to take place tomorrow.
