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INEOS Britannia Secures Thrilling Win Against Orient Express Racing Team at Louis Vuitton Cup
INEOS Britannia vs. Orient Express Racing Team on Louis Vuitton Cup Round Robin 1 Day 4 © Ricardo Pinto / America’s Cup
INEOS Britannia achieved an exhilarating victory in one of the most intense races of the 37th America’s Cup, winning their third match against Orient Express Racing Team. As the British Challenger of Record, competing for the Royal Yacht Squadron Ltd, they faced the French team in Match 13 of the Round Robin stage.
The race began with a dramatic pre-start, where INEOS Britannia led but crossed the starting line a mere 0.05 seconds too early, resulting in a penalty. This setback left them trailing 100 meters behind the French boat. However, the British crew managed to reduce their deficit to just 13 seconds at the first gate. Upon turning downwind, they seized the right of way, forcing Orient Express Racing Team to take a slow and awkward rounding.
Despite their initial lead, the British team faced further challenges as they incurred another penalty during the upwind leg. Once again, Orient Express Racing Team took the lead, but INEOS Britannia’s exceptional speed and tactical prowess came into play on the fifth leg. The French team made a critical mistake while trying to gain control, allowing INEOS Britannia to regain the upper hand and establish an 11-second lead by the last gate.
The final leg saw a clean performance from INEOS Britannia, securing their victory and bringing relief to their supporters. Team Principal and Skipper Ben Ainslie remarked on the thrilling nature of the race, acknowledging the French team’s competitiveness and the need for his crew to refine their tactics.
In other news, Alinghi Red Bull Racing faced disqualification against Emirates Team New Zealand after issues with their mainsail. They later suffered a second defeat against the Italians, while the Kiwis registered a win against the Americans.
With all teams having raced each other once, the first Round Robin concluded, placing INEOS Britannia second on the Challengers Leaderboard with three wins, including victories over NYYC American Magic and Alinghi Red Bull Racing.
Co-Helm Dylan Fletcher expressed optimism for the upcoming second Round Robin, highlighting their improving performance and building momentum, despite the frustration of losing to Luna Rossa.
Looking ahead, the second Round Robin starts Tuesday, with significant implications for the teams. The bottom-ranked team will be eliminated, and the top teams will progress to the Semi-Finals, leading to the final showdown that determines who will challenge the Defender, Emirates Team New Zealand, in the America’s Cup Match.
INEOS Britannia is set to compete against NYYC American Magic, and viewers in the UK can catch the live action on TNT Sports.
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Emily Carter, a seasoned sailor and marine journalist from Vancouver, has a deep-seated passion for the ocean that has shaped her career. With a degree in Marine Journalism from the University of British Columbia, Emily has become known for her captivating and detailed storytelling. Her work vividly portrays the excitement of sailing and the distinct maritime culture of Canada, earning her a respected place in the sailing community. When not writing, Emily enjoys navigating the rugged coastlines of British Columbia and participating in local regattas, always eager to embark on her next maritime adventure.
