Kovalenko, who has coached Australian sailors to seven Olympic medals including six gold, will mentor the nation's next-generation sailing coaches in his new role.

"I have worked with many generations of successful athletes and coaches and now is the right time to pass this refined experience on to a new generation of coaches," Kovalenko said.

"My mission is to transfer what I know in the shortest time to Australia's emerging coaching talent.

"I don't want them to repeat the road that I have done. I want them to move the flame further.

"Everything is in place.

"We have a very strong system and very strong young coaches around the country.

"What I need to do now is invest my time in the right direction and to achieve our mission."

Kovalenko is Australia's most successful Olympic sailing coach since joining the national ranks in 1997.

He will coach and mentor the development of Australia's Olympic coaching tree, including the Australian sailing team and identified Australian sailing futures program coaches.

Australian Sailing president Daniel Belcher said retaining Kovalenko was a coup for the nation.

"His record of success is unmatched and the next generation of Australian Olympic sailing coaches are going to be learning from someone who is a master in his field," Belcher said.

Kovalenko's six Olympic gold medals as coach include two won by Malcolm Page at the 2008 and 2012 Games.

The apprentice will now work alongside the master with Page assuming the role of Mixed 470 coach.

Australian Associated Press