5-2 for Ineos
The first challenge to qualify was the British team Ineos. Having come first in the Round Robin doubles, the team led by Sir Ben Ainslie chose to face the Swiss Alinghi, who had come last.
Dominating Alinghi in the first four races, the British showed their ease against an opponent who had a strong presence at the start, but quickly fell behind on the first tacks.
A coordination problem on the part of the Swiss crew almost led to a collision between the two belligerents. The Swiss then managed to get back on track with two fine victories.
However, their elimination was sealed on a windy day in match 7, with Ineos winning by more than a minute.
5-3 for Luna Rossa
It was after match 8 that the Italians managed to qualify, eliminating American Magic, who didn't disappoint during this semi-final. The Americans leave the Cup with a better performance than in the 2021 campaign, which was a nightmare in terms of results.
Dominated in the first four races by Luna Rossa, American Magic then gave its rivals a run for their money, stringing together two great races in close contact, which were fabulous to watch.
The worst came during Match 7, when Luna Rossa's mainsail carriage exploded, forcing the Italian team to spend an entire night repairing their damaged AC75. But the Italians held their heads high, winning the final match by a minute.
Strategic choices for the Grand Finale
The choice of the British to take on the Swiss was a logical one, given the Swiss team's inferior level of performance, with Ben Ainslie giving himself every chance of reaching the final. But with the Swiss boat regularly lagging behind during the heats, the British didn't really race in contact, and under pressure from an aggressive opponent.
Quite the opposite for Luna Rossa, who battled hard against an American Challenger much sharper than the Swiss. As a result, the Italians have gained more experience of racing under pressure, which may prove beneficial for the remainder of the regatta.
The Louis Vuitton Cup final is scheduled to start next Thursday, September 26, subject to favorable conditions. The first Challenger to win seven races will earn the right to challenge New Zealand's Team New Zealand for the 37th America's Cup.
