Former Team New Zealand skipper Dean Barker believes his new team is in catch up mode as it builds towards the 2021 America's Cup in Auckland

Barker has been recruited by Terry Hutchinson's American Magic challenge out of the New York yacht club as helmsman.

He's disappointed there are only three confirmed entries so far, believing any new challengers will struggle to be competitive.

Barker says established teams like Luna Rossa, Team New Zealand and the British challenge have the jump on them.

He says they are working really hard to break down the gap and it starts when they put the first of the 75 footers in the water some time next year.