Very similar performance levels
Against all odds, the start of the America's Cup was marked by the fierce duel between the challenger Luna Rossa and the defender Team New Zealand. At the end of the first three days of racing, the two belligerents were tied on points. TNZ, who was considered the favourite, was not as untouchable as all that. The Italian foiler, favoured in the light airs of the first few races, showed a level of performance quite close to the Kiwi crew.
But it's hard to keep the pressure on Peter Burling and his crew. For the tenth race, TNZ dominated the Italians throughout the race, gradually increasing the gap to cross the finish line with a 50 second lead.
With five straight wins, the Kiwis won the Cup and retained the trophy they have held since the last edition.
One of the best helmsmen in the world
Peter Burling, 31 years old, confirms his place among the world's best helmsmen. Olympic medallist, six-time world champion, and now two-time America's Cup winner, the New Zealand sailor already has an incredible track record.
Faced with Australian Jimmy Spithill, the talented and aggressive helmsman of the Italian Luna Rossa Challenge, Peter Burling was able to keep a cool head in the face of the Italians' repeated assaults. Insatiable for victory, he will now resume his preparation for the Olympic Games in Tokyo this summer.
New Zealanders win their technology challenge
When the New Zealanders presented a novel concept of a hydrofoil monohull three years ago, many observers were sceptical about the feasibility of the project. Capable of reaching 51 knots, the foiler has demonstrated an incredible potential for speed and a strong appeal to the general public. The economic context being unprecedented, only three defenders managed to show up on the New Zealand race course. Faced with a very high quality field, Luna Rossa beat the Americans of American Magic and the English of Ineos, winning the Prada Cup.
The Italians fought hard against the favourites New Zealand and showed more potential than four years ago.
Luna Rossa had a great second, but once again, the New Zealanders were far too strong.
What is the future of the Cup?
After the victory, the New Zealand team will now choose the format of the future Cup, i.e. the support and the water surface. It is not yet this year that the oldest trophy in the world will return to Europe. See you in a few months to know how Grant Dalton and his team envisage the future America's Cup.
