Luna Rossa’s Journey in the Louis Vuitton Cup Finals Ends
by Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli 4 Oct 12:15 PDT
4 October 2024
Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli after the final race – Louis Vuitton Cup Final – October 4, 2024 © Carlo Borlenghi / Luna Rossa
Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli’s campaign for the 37th America’s Cup concluded today as the team faced defeat by INEOS Britannia on the seventh day of the Louis Vuitton Cup finals. This brought great disappointment to the Italian squad, as their opportunity to compete in the America’s Cup Match vanished.
The pride among the team was unmistakable for having participated in exciting and challenging races, marking the fifth time they reached the finals of the Challenger Selection Series. Luna Rossa showcased the strength and professionalism of a top-level team that has captivated the sailing community and highlighted the excellence of Italian craftsmanship.
MATCH #11 – GBR vs ITA
Luna Rossa bid farewell to the 37th America’s Cup following an intense and hard-fought contest. Positioned windward of the British vessel, Luna Rossa tacked right and gradually closed the gap on their opponent halfway up the first leg.
However, they could not manage to cross ahead, allowing INEOS Britannia to round the initial mark first. The balance of the race saw Luna Rossa fiercely contesting, searching for advantageous shifts and exerting significant pressure on their opponents.
The race became tighter during the fifth leg, with the Italian boat rounding just 4 seconds behind. Despite Luna Rossa’s relentless efforts, INEOS Britannia successfully defended their lead and denied any opportunities for a comeback.
Winner: GBR (+1 point)
Today’s Luna Rossa crew included Jimmy Spithill and Francesco Bruni at the helm, supported by Umberto Molineris and Andrea Tesei as trimmers. The cyclors on board comprised Enrico Voltolini, Bruno Rosetti, Cesare Gabbia, and Emanuele Liuzzi.
Quotes from the Sailors
Francesco Bruni commended his adversary post-race, stating, “Congratulations, Ben, you deserved it,” directed at Sir Ben Ainslie, helm and Team Director of INEOS Britannia. Addressing his teammates and Italian fans, he continued: “This is an extremely challenging moment for all of us. We’ve accomplished remarkable feats as a unit, and I appreciate each of you individually for your contributions. Regrettably, we didn’t achieve our desired outcome. Thank you for your support; you’ve allowed us to dream. We had the tools to be in the race for the Cup, but we fell short in the finals. INEOS earned this victory. It wasn’t our day, but Luna Rossa will return stronger.”
Max Sirena, Skipper and Team Director, reflected: “It’s always an odd feeling when a journey lasting over three years with so many participants comes to an end, people who have become like family. I thank everyone who joined us on this adventure and the fans who have supported Luna Rossa for years. A special acknowledgment goes to Patrizio Bertelli, Lorenzo, and the Prada family for their unwavering dedication to the sport. Additionally, I thank Marco Tronchetti Provera and all our partners and sponsors for their belief and support over these years. The silver lining is that the team will continue, which is the most important aspect for sailing, for aspiring sailors, and for fans. Winning the America’s Cup is an incredibly challenging task—almost unattainable. The only way to succeed is to persist and make one fewer mistake than your opponent. Today, we acknowledge INEOS Britannia for out-sailing us. The key is to leave without regrets, knowing we gave it our all. Thank you to everyone.”
Jimmy Spithill remarked: “Firstly, I want to express my gratitude to the entire Luna Rossa team—this has been an incredible journey. This is my third stint with the squad, which has truly become family for me. I’m very disappointed we didn’t reach our goal, but I’m immensely thankful to everyone for their exceptional contributions. Simultaneously, I extend my congratulations to INEOS Britannia, especially to Ben, who is a good friend. I’ve raced both alongside and against him, and I have great respect for him. I’m thrilled for his success today.”
Lorenzo Bertelli, Prada Group Chief Marketing Officer and Head of Corporate Social Responsibility, stated: “For the first time, we potentially had the fastest boat in the competition; for the first time, our team featured so many determined sailors, along with a bright future with promising young talent. If we focus solely on today, it wasn’t a favorable day. However, if we view it in the correct light, we should remain optimistic: today is also a day to take pride in. We have an excellent team with a glowing future. We will continue to fight and stay positive. We’re here, doing amazing work with people we cherish. Each of you deserves significant recognition.”
Marco Tronchetti Provera, Executive Vice President of Pirelli, co-title sponsor of the team, added: “First, I wish to thank Patrizio Bertelli for including me years ago, and Max Sirena, the finest coach in this field, and the best skipper for us all. This endeavor isn’t solely about assembling a team for the America’s Cup; it’s also about nurturing a generation of passionate young sailors who enjoy a sport that involves families and requires sacrifices, a sport characterized by quality, which you have brilliantly demonstrated. You have all excelled. I’m involved in numerous sports, but I’ve never seen the quality, passion, connection, and family support that I’ve witnessed here. You are an extraordinary team. Thank you all for exemplifying what sports should be.”
