A composed performance from New Zealand levels the contest after Australia’s opening win.
The Black Foils responded in style in SailGP Auckland Race 2, claiming victory with a disciplined and controlled performance on home waters.
After Australia set the early benchmark in Race 1, the second contest saw the fleet remain tightly grouped through the opening marks. Switzerland was over early and cleared a prestart penalty, immediately placing them under pressure in a compressed field.
At Mark 1, the margins were narrow, with Australia, the United States and Great Britain all within seconds of the lead. New Zealand held position and rounded Mark 2 just 0.9 seconds behind the front runner.
The middle stages proved decisive. Spain and France stayed within striking distance, but penalties began to shape the race. Brazil was penalised for sailing outside the boundary, Switzerland received a penalty following a port and starboard incident with Italy, and Spain later incurred a mark room penalty involving Sweden.
New Zealand avoided the disruption.
Maintaining clean air through the final legs, the Black Foils crossed the line in 9:16.565 to secure the win. Spain followed across the line, with Great Britain third, 12.3 seconds behind the winner. France finished fourth and Australia fifth.
With two races complete, the regatta remains finely balanced as teams prepare for the next start in Auckland.
