Alinghi Red Bull Racing departs on a high note
by Alinghi Red Bull Racing 18 Sep 11:03 PDT
17-22 September 2024
Alinghi Red Bull Racing departs on a high note – Louis Vuitton Cup Semi Finals © Alinghi Red Bull Racing / Samo Vidic
Day 4 of the Louis Vuitton Cup Semi-Finals marked the conclusion of Alinghi Red Bull Racing’s pursuit for the 37th America’s Cup after Ineos Britannia defeated them 5-2 in the best-of-five Semi-Finals.
It was an emotional rollercoaster for the Swiss Challenger, who demonstrated a commendable performance on their final day in the competition.
Despite achieving a strong victory in the day’s opening race, Alinghi Red Bull Racing lost a hard-fought fifth point to Ineos Britannia, bringing an end to an extraordinary campaign.
Alinghi Red Bull Racing, established in December 2021 through a collaboration between Alinghi—twice America’s Cup champion—and Red Bull—a globally-recognized performance-oriented brand with a prominent multi-sport history—set ambitious goals.
The team’s vision inspired all those who appreciate sporting challenges and admire those willing to tread the harder path, creating opportunities for young Swiss sailors to compete with experienced teams like Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli and Ineos Britannia for the oldest trophy in sports.
Skipper Arnaud Psarofaghis stated, “I’m not entirely sure what’s going through my mind. I think it’s over. We were getting the hang of sailing the boat well yesterday and today, but it was too late. It’s been an honor to be here and partake in this competition. Huge thanks to everyone—shore team, boat builders, designers, supporters, partners, and especially the team principals for allowing us this opportunity. The boat performed admirably, but we missed some key opportunities while sailing.”
Hans-Peter Steinacher, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and board member, remarked, “The team fought valiantly until the end. It’s a tough day for everyone, but we take pride in what we’ve achieved over the last three years. Although we’re out of the competition, Alinghi Red Bull Racing will continue to sail BoatOne in Barcelona to refine its design and enhance performance.”
Ernesto Bertarelli, Team Chairman, expressed, “I am proud of this crew and our partnership with Red Bull. We aimed to advance further, but that’s the nature of sports. Kudos to Ineos Britannia for their outstanding performance; they’re fast and error-free, and we wish them well in the rest of the competition. I want to thank our partners and fans for the tremendous support during the lead-up to the competition and the last few weeks, both globally and here in Barcelona during the dock-outs, which created unforgettable and emotional moments.”
