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What We Learned on Day 7 of the Louis Vuitton Cup Round Robin
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After an overnight storm, the sea off Barcelona was decidedly lumpy, making life tricky for the trimmers, with a forecasted wind of 6 to 11 knots from the south.
The huge swell turned it into a day focused on boat handling, emphasizing the need for hydraulic power and the critical role of cyclors’ power output.
Sailors had to remain vigilant for debris in the water, as even minor contact with a branch could cause significant damage at speeds exceeding 40 knots. INEOS Britannia faced this precarious situation firsthand, as they hit a log with their rudder during practice, requiring checks from a diver before racing.
All AC75s dropped their boards at the leeward gates to enhance control in the waves while rounding the marks.
New York Yacht Club American Magic vs. Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli
In 11 knots of wind, two strong contenders delivered an exciting match. American Magic entered the start box cleanly, positioning themselves just leeward of Luna Rossa, which forced the Italians to tack early.
During the first cross, American Magic ducked Luna Rossa, but on the second engagement, their decision to tack leeward was less than optimal, allowing Luna Rossa to establish a 14-second lead at the first windward gate, although they chose different marks.
American Magic made a comeback downwind, rounding the leeward gate just 3 seconds behind. The two teams continued trading positions neck-and-neck, with American Magic ducking Luna Rossa on multiple crosses and rounding the second windward gate just 7 seconds behind.
The final downwind leg saw Luna Rossa extending their lead, finishing 22 seconds ahead after demonstrating exceptional control and boat handling.
INEOS Britannia vs. Alinghi Red Bull Racing
With wind speeds reaching 15 knots, INEOS Britannia opted for a 15-minute delay to change to a smaller jib. Alinghi had already been racing with their J3.
The start was competitive, with Alinghi attempting to push INEOS Britannia into a tack. However, the British team managed to power over Alinghi, tacking onto port in unison.
At the windward gate, INEOS Britannia held a 12 second lead, which they extended to 21 seconds at the first leeward gate. Their impressive performance showed enhanced communication and tactical acuity, finishing with an impressive 53-second victory.
New York Yacht Club American Magic vs. Orient Express Racing Team
In winds of 18 knots, Orient Express faced a crucial race. Both boats lined up high on the line, with the French team starting to the left, matching pace with the Americans.
Upon tacking, American Magic countered, forcing Orient Express to alter their course. The Americans controlled the upwind leg superbly, rounding the first windward gate with an 8-second lead.
Despite challenges downwind, American Magic maintained their focus, rounding the second upwind gate with a 15-second lead and ultimately winning by 15 seconds. With only one point, Orient Express is on the brink of exiting the Louis Vuitton Cup.
Emirates Team New Zealand vs. Alinghi Red Bull Racing
Alinghi initially pulled ahead off the start line, but Emirates Team New Zealand soon pressured them, forcing a tack away. By the first windward gate, the Kiwis were in the lead by 7 seconds, showcasing their effective use of a smaller jib throughout the race.
Despite a rough round at the leeward gate, Emirates Team New Zealand quickly recovered to maintain their lead, finishing 38 seconds ahead in this no-point match.
Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli vs. INEOS Britannia
The day concluded with an exciting face-off between the two top teams. Both boats entered the start box at a thrilling 44 knots. INEOS Britannia took the high line advantageously, leading to a remarkable drag race to the right boundary.
After rounding the first windward gate 8 seconds ahead, INEOS Britannia continued to hold off Luna Rossa with a cover strategy that stretched their lead to 29 seconds by the second leeward gate.
With both teams pushing the limits, INEOS Britannia managed to secure their first victory over Luna Rossa by a margin of 25 seconds, marking a historic moment as it handed the Italian team their first defeat.
Source
Luca Moretti, an accomplished sailor and marine journalist from Genoa, Italy, has a lifelong passion for the sea that has defined his career. With a degree in Marine Journalism from the University of Genoa, Luca is celebrated for his vivid and insightful storytelling. His work captures the excitement of sailing and the rich maritime traditions of Europe, making him a well-respected voice in the sailing community. When he’s not writing, Luca can be found exploring the Mediterranean’s picturesque coastlines and competing in regattas, always seeking new adventures on the open water.
