America’s Cup delivered yet another thrilling race, this time featuring France’s Orient Express going head-to-head with NYYC American Magic (USA). For the French, this was a crucial contest—they simply could not afford to lose, as their spot in the competition was on the line. The race saw the lead change hands multiple times, but ultimately, it was American Magic’s superior performance that clinched the victory. Here’s a detailed look at this high-stakes showdown.
The race kicked off with both teams showing their determination from the start. Throughout leg 1, the boats were almost neck-and-neck, with only nine metres separating them. This tight battle set the stage for what would be an exhilarating contest.
However, as the leg progressed, NYYC American Magic began to slowly extend their lead. By the halfway point of leg 1, the American boat was 100 metres ahead of the French, but Orient Express continued to push hard, refusing to let the gap widen any further.
At 4 minutes and 6 seconds, American Magic was the first to pass through Gate 1, maintaining their advantage. The French team wasn’t far behind, crossing the gate just 6 seconds later. Both boats were sailing at full throttle, and it was still anyone’s race.
As leg 2 began, the momentum shifted in favour of the French. By the halfway mark, Orient Express had surged ahead, taking a 100-metre lead over the Americans. For the first time in the race, the French looked like they might take control.
However, this lead was short-lived. The Americans regained their composure and soon after, NYYC American Magic reclaimed the lead. The teams were evenly matched, trading the lead back and forth, creating a nail-biting contest.
The USA passed through Gate 2 at 7:20, with the French trailing 100 metres behind. Orient Express crossed the gate 14 seconds later, but despite the growing gap, the race remained close. The French were still in contention, though they needed to find a way to gain ground on the formidable American team.
In leg 3, American Magic began to dominate, gradually extending their lead to 250 metres. Halfway through the leg, the gap had grown to 50 metres, and by the time they reached Gate 3 at 11:35, the Americans were firmly in control.
The French passed through Gate 3 16 seconds later, maintaining roughly the same gap as the previous leg, but it was becoming increasingly clear that NYYC American Magic was in the driver’s seat. The Americans launched off Gate 3 with renewed speed, while the French began to struggle.
Despite their earlier efforts, the French team began to lose ground in leg 4. American Magic, although briefly struggling with a rudder issue, managed to maintain their sizeable lead. The Americans passed through the fourth gate at 14:42, with the French following 20 seconds later, having lost 3 more seconds since the previous gate.
At this point, it was looking dire for the French. They needed to make a dramatic comeback if they wanted to avoid elimination. However, the gap between the two boats continued to widen, and American Magic was not letting up.
The USA continued to dominate as they powered up leg 5. By the halfway mark, the American team had stretched their lead to 350 metres. Both boats were flying at speeds of around 35 knots, yet the French were unable to close the gap.
Adding to their troubles, the Americans encountered a potential issue with their rudder or foil, possibly due to seaweed, which could have been a turning point. However, the problem didn’t seem to slow them down significantly, and they pushed forward with their lead intact.
American Magic rounded the final gate at 19:10, a clear 200 metres ahead of the French. Orient Express followed 18 seconds later, but the gap had already widened too much for a comeback. With the final leg underway, the Americans looked poised for victory, barring any catastrophe.
As both teams sped down the final leg, it was clear that the USA had the race in hand. The Americans crossed the finish line at 22:23, securing a well-earned victory. Despite their best efforts, the French team finished 15 seconds later, having put up a valiant fight but ultimately falling short.
Although Orient Express showed flashes of brilliance, they were simply outpaced by NYYC American Magic, whose consistency and ability to handle pressure proved decisive. The French gave everything they had, but in the end, it wasn’t enough to topple the American team.
For France, this race highlights the gap they need to close if they hope to stay competitive in the America’s Cup. Meanwhile, the USA continues to demonstrate why they are one of the very credible contenders in the tournament, showcasing both speed and resilience in the face of challenges.
