Luna Rossa secures its second match win of the day, gaining a third point – Louis Vuitton Cup Final Day 4
by Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli 30 Sep 08:30 PDT
30 September 2024
Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli competing on Louis Vuitton Cup Final Race Day 4 – September 30, 2024 © David Maynard / www.alleycatphotographer.com
Luna Rossa and INEOS Britannia remain tied with three points each after both teams won one match today. Luna Rossa, penalized for a start error that lost them their first race, showcased an exceptional performance in the second match, demonstrating superior speed in certain phases of the regatta.
The conditions for the AC75s on this fourth day of the Louis Vuitton Cup finals were optimal, with 18-19 knots from the south-west and minimal wave action. In contrast to the previous day, the wind conditions adhered to the regulations, facilitating a timely start for both scheduled races.
MATCH #05 – ITA vs GBR
Luna Rossa entered the pre-start box from the left side, choosing the right side of the course but fell off the foils just before crossing the start line, allowing the British team to gain a crucial lead. Despite quick sailing and smooth maneuvers during the match, the Italian team couldn’t push Ineos Britannia into errors or overtake them. GBR maintained its slim lead up to the finish line.
Winner: GBR (+ 1 point)
MATCH #06 – GBR vs ITA
In a pre-start that was more intense than the first match, Luna Rossa won the start decisively, moving immediately to the right side of the course. From that moment, the race proceeded in a manner similar to the previous one, but with the roles reversed. Luna Rossa pushed Ineos Britannia to the left side of the course, successfully defending their lead, which translated to a 4-second advantage at the first mark. With rapid and confident maneuvers along with precise tactics, Luna Rossa widened the gap at every leg, eventually opening up a 300-meter lead over the British boat. Despite Sir Ben Ainslie’s crew’s attempts, Luna Rossa made no mistakes and allowed no opportunity for a comeback, crossing the finish line 17 seconds ahead of the British team.
Winner: ITA (+ 1 point)
Today’s Luna Rossa crew featured Jimmy Spithill and Francesco Bruni at the helm, with Umberto Molineris and Andrea Tesei as trimmers. Enrico Voltolini and Bruno Rosetti served as cyclors in both races, while Paolo Simion and Luca Kirwan alternated with Cesare Gabbia and Emanuele Liuzzi.
Watch the races live at www.lunarossachallenge.com
