The fourth and final race of Day Two at the Puig Women’s America’s Cup was one for the books, with the Dutch team asserting their dominance and taking their second consecutive victory of the day. After a series of intense races where three teams – Sweden, Australia, and the Dutch – each secured a win, the stage was set for a thrilling showdown.
As the race began, it was the Dutch team who sprang out of the gate first, followed closely by Canada. Halfway through Leg 1, the Dutch maintained a narrow 10-metre lead, but it wasn’t long before they tapped into a favourable “funnel” of wind. This gust propelled them even further ahead, and by three-quarters of the way through Leg 1, they had extended their advantage to a commanding 70 metres.
While the Dutch surged ahead, Spain trailed in third, once again proving they were a consistent force in the competition, even if a first win remained elusive. As the Dutch approached Gate 1, they held a significant 100-metre lead, passing through the gate at 4 minutes and 37 seconds. Meanwhile, Canada, still in second, suffered a major setback when they dropped off their foils just before the gate. This mishap allowed Australia to slip into second place, with Sweden hot on their heels.
Entering Leg 2, the Dutch maintained their lead, while Spain found themselves struggling to stay on their foils, losing critical momentum alongside Canada. Sweden capitalised on this, charging into third place, just behind Australia. This put Sweden in a comfortable position after a tough day of racing, where technical issues had marred earlier efforts. If they could hold their ground, Sweden looked to secure a strong finish and avoid any major losses in the overall standings.
The Dutch, meanwhile, sailed a flawless race, ensuring they had plenty of breathing room before the final gate. They passed Gate 3 at 12 minutes and 37 seconds, with Australia trailing 21 seconds later. Sweden followed closely in third, with Spain, Germany, and Canada rounding out the fleet.
As the Dutch entered the final leg, their lead over Australia stretched to over 200 metres, leaving no doubt as to the race’s outcome. The Dutch crossed the finish line in 15 minutes and 3 seconds, sealing back-to-back wins. Australia followed in second, with Sweden taking third – a strong recovery after earlier struggles. Spain finished in fourth, Germany in fifth, and Canada, still battling to find their rhythm, finished last in sixth place.
The Dutch team’s outstanding performance capped a day where their strategy, boat handling, and ability to harness key wind shifts put them well ahead of the competition. With two wins under their belt and a clear display of mastery on the water, the Dutch have positioned themselves as a team to watch as the Puig Women’s America’s Cup continues.
Race Results
- Netherlands
- Australia
- Sweden
- Spain
- Germany
- Canada
This race further cements the unpredictable and thrilling nature of this year’s America’s Cup. With each team pushing themselves and their boats to the limit, fans are in for plenty more high-octane action as the event progresses.
