A challenging day with two defeats – Louis Vuitton Cup Final day 6
by Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli 2 Oct 11:46 PDT
2 October 2024
Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli vs INEOS Britannia (pre-start of race 9) – Louis Vuitton Cup Final – Race Day 6 – October 2, 2024 © David Maynard / www.alleycatphotographer.com
A challenging day for Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli, who suffered defeats in both races against INEOS Britannia. The sixth day of the Louis Vuitton Cup Finals presented complicated conditions for both Italian and British teams, featuring a strong east wind of 17 knots and crossed waves exceeding one meter in height.
Under these circumstances, maintaining control of the AC75s during maneuvers is exceedingly difficult, and even minor errors can lead to significant ramifications.
Horacio Carabelli, Design Coordinator, stated: “Today has been a tough day for the team. In the first race, our jib choice was suboptimal since the wind did not strengthen as we anticipated, resulting in a speed deficit during the downwind legs. Additionally, the British executed their maneuvers effectively, leaving us with limited options. The second start wasn’t ideal either; we had to slow down as we neared the line, while the British had a superior start and sailed effectively. We managed to narrow the gap at one point, but it wasn’t sufficient for a win.”
“Nevertheless, we are a resilient team looking ahead. We are concentrating on Friday, which will be pivotal. We’ll be prepared, united, and determined to perform at our best and win the races necessary to qualify for the America’s Cup, our goal for the past four years.”
MATCH #09 – ITA vs GBR
After a split tack at the start, both boats diverged, with Luna Rossa choosing the right side of the course. During the initial upwind leg, both boats engaged in numerous maneuvers and crossings, with frequent shifts in the lead. At the first mark, GBR led by a mere 2 seconds. However, during the downwind leg, the gap expanded, affected by the smaller jib.
Although the Italian team performed well under tough conditions and attempted to turn the tide, they could not capitalize on opportunities to overtake.
Winner: GBR (+ 1 point)
MATCH #10 – GBR vs ITA
Starting windward of Ineos Britannia, Luna Rossa had to tack after the line, heading towards the right side of the course. On the opposite side, the British crew took advantage of better wind conditions and rounded the first mark with a narrow 3-second lead.
Luna Rossa made a strong comeback on the fifth leg, aided by a control issue on the British boat, reducing most of the gap, yet it was not enough to change the outcome.
Winner: GBR (+ 1 point)
Today, Luna Rossa’s lineup included Jimmy Spithill and Francesco Bruni at the helm, with Umberto Molineris and Andrea Tesei as trimmers. The cyclors on board were Enrico Voltolini and Bruno Rosetti for both races, while Cesare Gabbia and Emanuele Liuzzi alternated with Paolo Simion and Luca Kirwan.
Watch the races live at www.lunarossachallenge.com
