Dean Barker says he only found out he was being dumped as Team New Zealand's skipper and sailing director through the media, Radio New Zealand reports.
The team yesterday confirmed that its helmsman for the America’s Cup in Bermuda will be either Peter Burling, 24, or sailing director Glenn Ashby, 37.
Barker has instead been offered the role of performance manager and sailing coach.
Speaking on Campbell Live, Barker said he first heard he might be replaced through a leak in the media and added that he found out he was being officially dumped in a Team New Zealand media statement.
“I am absolutely gutted in the way that I've been treated by Team New Zealand and the management, in this whole process. It's just been incredibly difficult to understand.”
Barker said he has had numerous offers from other syndicates but has always been loyal to Team New Zealand and doesn't know why he's being replaced.
Team New Zealand managing director Grant Dalton said he hoped Barker would accept the new role, which would contribute significant experience to the team.
Yachting New Zealand's former high performance manager Peter Lester said the decision to replace Barker was the right move.
"For New Zealand to win the America's Cup or win the challenger series and go on to be the challenger, it does require a change. It's certainly - new blood, new people, young guys, and that's crucial. The game's moved on."