Emirates Team New Zealand (ETNZ) continues to build momentum in the 37th America’s Cup, taking their second win in the series after a thrilling battle against the UK in Barcelona today.
From the outset, both teams were in fierce contention, applying pressure to secure the best possible start. The UK team was quick off the mark, gaining an early 30-metre lead. But New Zealand, ever relentless, edged closer with each gust of wind, eventually overtaking ¾ of the way through Leg 1. ETNZ surged through Gate 1 at 3:50, with the UK not far behind, following just 11 seconds later—keeping the race nail-bitingly close.
As the boats entered Leg 2, the battle for the lead intensified. The UK briefly widened their advantage by 50 metres, but ETNZ, unwilling to give an inch, retook the lead just before Gate 2. While the UK suffered a brief touch-down on their third foil, they remained in the race, trailing only 9 seconds behind New Zealand as they rounded the gate.
Heading into Leg 3, New Zealand extended their lead to 90 metres, though the contest remained razor-thin. Halfway through the leg, they had stretched the gap further, but by the time they passed through Gate 3 at 11:35, their lead stood at 14 seconds—a sizeable margin, but nothing guaranteed in the unpredictable world of America’s Cup racing.
Leg 4 saw Emirates Team New Zealand maintain their dominance, reaching speeds of 30 knots and holding a 150-metre lead. The UK, however, stayed in striking distance, crossing through Gate 4 just 10 seconds behind. The race seemed closer than ever as both teams fought to take control going into the final stretch.
The real drama unfolded in Leg 5. The UK clawed back into the fight, briefly taking the lead a quarter of the way through the leg. But in a flash, New Zealand found their stride, surging ahead by an astonishing 200 metres. ETNZ rounded Gate 5 at 19:30, with the UK trailing by 28 seconds—now desperately trying to keep pace.
By Leg 6, it became clear New Zealand was in full control. With a commanding 350-metre lead, they navigated the gate at 22:19, while the UK, 32 seconds behind, struggled to make up ground. Leg 7 offered more of the same, as New Zealand sailed at a steady 26 knots and rounded the final gate with a 500-metre lead—an insurmountable margin at this stage of the race.
With precision and power, Emirates Team New Zealand crossed the finish line at 28:23, claiming their second victory in as many races. The UK finished 27 seconds later, now facing an uphill battle if they hope to keep their America’s Cup dreams alive.
With two wins in the bag, New Zealand has taken a commanding position in the series. But as every America’s Cup fan knows, nothing is certain until that final race is won. For now, ETNZ sails on, with eyes firmly set on the prize.
