Michael Dunkley welcomed sailors from the SoftBank Team Japan into the Cabinet Office for a courtesy visit.

The team is led by Dean Barker who has been appointed skipper and chief executive officer of the Japanese challenger.

According to Team Japan, Skipper Barker has over 15 years of America’s Cup experience, including having sailed in four America’s Cup Matches.

SoftBank Team Japan was confirmed as a challenger this summer and has moved to Bermuda this month to prepare for the World Series Races and the 2017 America’s Cup.

Mr Barker was accompanied by his team-mate Kazihuko SoFuku (Fuku), also pictured. Premier Dunkley was joined by the Minister of Economic Development, Dr Grant Gibbons at the recent visit.

The Louis Vuitton America’s Cup World Series Races is due to take place in Bermuda from October 16 to 18.