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HomeAmerica's CupAC37Final Race 1: The Italian Silver Bullet Shoots To A Massive Win!

Final Race 1: The Italian Silver Bullet Shoots To A Massive Win!

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The much-anticipated Louis Vuitton America's Cup Challenger Series kicked off in electrifying fashion today, as Italy and the UK locked horns in the first race of the series. Both teams brought their A-game, but it was Italy’s masterclass performance that shone through, propelling them to a commanding victory and setting the stage for a highly anticipated final against New Zealand.

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As the race began, the conditions were near-perfect, with winds ranging from 12 to 18 knots – a sailor’s dream. Italy took full advantage, surging ahead right from the starting gate. Within minutes, they established a significant lead, with a 150-metre advantage over their British rivals during the first leg. The fast-paced action was a testament to both teams’ skill, with speeds peaking at an impressive 51 knots as they flew down the first leg of the course.

September 26, 2024. Louis Vuitton Cup, Final Race Day 1. INEOS BRITANNIA, LUNA ROSSA PRADA PIRELLI TEAM. Photo Credit: AC37 media

Despite the early gap, the UK team refused to back down, closing the distance to just 60 metres midway through the opening leg. However, Italy’s precision and superior boat handling saw them reach the first gate at 3:20, maintaining a 12-second lead. As both boats rocketed through the gate at speeds of 47 knots, it became clear that the Italians were in no mood to relinquish control.

By the third gate, Italy had extended their lead to 275 metres, navigating the challenging waters of Barcelona’s harbour with ease. The UK, while holding steady, struggled to match the Italians’ blistering pace, particularly after a light nose-dive during leg three, which slowed them down and allowed the Italians to further extend their lead.

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September 26, 2024. Louis Vuitton Cup Final, Race Day 1. Photo Credit: AC37 media

Halfway through the race, Italy continued to dominate, maintaining a gap of over 400 metres through leg four. The British team showed moments of promise, briefly reducing the distance to 300 metres, but the Italians were relentless, crossing the fourth gate at 13:01 – 18 seconds ahead of the UK.

As the race progressed into its latter stages, Italy displayed a clinical consistency, building their lead to an overwhelming 600 metres by the sixth leg. The UK managed to claw back a few seconds, but Italy’s performance remained faultless. By the time both boats entered the final leg, the Italians had extended their advantage to 850 metres, leaving no doubt about the outcome.

September 26, 2024. Louis Vuitton Cup Final, Race Day 1. Photo Credit: AC37 media

Crossing the finish line with a time of 27:03, Italy secured a convincing victory, finishing 46 seconds ahead of the UK. The result not only boosts Italian morale ahead of their upcoming final showdown with New Zealand but also cements their position as one of the strongest contenders in this year’s America’s Cup.

For Italy, this win is a significant morale boost. Coming off the back of their junior team’s triumph in the UniCredit Youth America’s Cup, the senior team will head into the final with renewed confidence. Meanwhile, the UK, despite a solid performance, will need to regroup and find answers if they hope to keep their campaign alive in the coming races.

September 26, 2024. Louis Vuitton Cup, Final Race Day 1. LUNA ROSSA PRADA PIRELLI TEAM. Photo Credit: AC37 media

As the Italian flag waved proudly, it became clear that this was more than just a victory – it was a statement of intent. If Italy continues to race with the precision and speed displayed today, they will be formidable challengers when they face New Zealand in the final.

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For now, though, all eyes are on the Italians, and with the wind at their backs, the next chapter of the America’s Cup is set to be an unforgettable one.

September 26, 2024. Louis Vuitton Cup, Final Race Day 1. INEOS BRITANNIA, LUNA ROSSA PRADA PIRELLI TEAM Photo Credit: AC37 media

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Boating NZ is New Zealand’s premier marine title devoted to putting its readers behind the wheel of the latest trailerboats, yachts and launches to hit the market. It inspires with practical content and cruising adventures, leads the fleet with its racing coverage and is on the pulse of the latest maritime news and innovation.

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