National Party Leader John Key has congratulated Team New Zealand on winning the right to challenge for the America's Cup after winning the Louis Vuitton Cup final today.

"Team New Zealand has shown outstanding teamwork and skill in gaining a 5-0 clean sweep over Luna Rossa.

"Grant Dalton and Dean Barker have shown outstanding leadership in getting Team New Zealand this far.

"All New Zealanders can be proud of the achievements so far of Team New Zealand.

"I want to take the opportunity to wish Team New Zealand the best of luck when they sail out to challenge Alinghi later this month for the America's Cup."