Leader Board: Emirates Team New Zealand 4 WINS INEOS Britannia 1 WIN
The pressure is mounting in the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup Final, and Race 5 proved just how quickly fortunes can change on the water. In a race that could have edged New Zealand within striking distance of an overall victory, a crucial unforced error early on opened the door wide for the UK to snatch their first win of the finals series.
It was a heart-stopping moment as Emirates Team New Zealand, known for their precision, fell off their foils in the starting sequence. For a few tense seconds, it was clear that this was no small slip-up—falling off the foils means losing the speed and lift that makes these high-tech AC75 yachts soar. The UK’s INEOS Britannia team seized the opportunity, crossing the start line with a massive advantage while the Kiwis struggled to get their boat back in flying condition.
By the time New Zealand regained their momentum, the UK was already storming through the first leg of the course, foiling at over 30 knots. At Gate 1, INEOS Britannia rounded at 5:41, while Emirates Team New Zealand trailed behind by more than two minutes—a massive gap in the high-stakes world of Cup racing.
Throughout the race, the UK maintained their lead, staying consistently on their foils and avoiding any critical errors. As the teams surged into Leg 3, both boats were pushing speeds of 36 knots, but the deficit remained. The UK rounded Gate 3 at 13:15, with New Zealand still chasing hard but lagging by 1:37.
By the final leg, it was clear that this was the UK’s race to lose. They crossed the finish line in 24:15, securing a decisive victory. Emirates Team New Zealand, despite their efforts to claw back lost ground, finished 1:18 later.
The UK’s win was well-earned, but the pressure remains immense. They will need to win both races today to relieve some of the tension heading into tomorrow’s crucial races. Meanwhile, for New Zealand, the challenge is to shake off this defeat and avoid any more unforced errors if they hope to claim the Cup.
A Race of High Stakes
For both teams, Race 5 was a turning point. New Zealand, having dominated much of the competition, now faces a psychological battle as they process the effects of one small but costly mistake. For the UK, this win is a vital lifeline, but with another race looming today, they can’t afford to get too comfortable.
In the America’s Cup, consistency is everything. While INEOS Britannia put on a nearly flawless performance in Race 5, it’s clear that the Kiwis won’t make the same mistake twice. Tomorrow’s races will decide if New Zealand can capitalise on their earlier success or if the UK can force the ultimate showdown.
Whatever happens, sailing fans around the world are in for a thrilling conclusion to this year’s America’s Cup.
