The 37th edition of the America’s Cup began on Saturday, October 12, 2024, in Barcelona, with two thrilling races pitting defender Emirates Team New Zealand against challenger INEOS Britannia. The Kiwis made a strong statement by winning the first two races of this best-of-13 final series.
Kiwi Dominance from the Start
In the opening race, the New Zealand crew led by Peter Burling took command early, quickly widening the gap to cross the finish line 41 seconds and more than 400 meters ahead of their British opponents
The second race was more closely contested, with two lead changes, before the Taihoro yacht found better wind mid-course to secure victory with a 27-second and 300-meter advantage
Challenging Racing Conditions
The crews had to contend with changeable weather conditions typical of the Mediterranean. Light and unstable winds tested the tactical skills of the skippers and the cutting-edge technology of the AC75s, these ultramodern flying monohulls.
Historic Stakes
This final holds particular significance:
- For New Zealand, it’s a chance to win a third consecutive title, a feat never before achieved in the competition’s history
- For Great Britain, it’s an opportunity to finally claim the prestigious trophy after a 173-year wait
Reactions from Key Players
Nathan Outteridge, New Zealand helmsman, stated: “This is what we have been working three years for. We have been a long time in preparation watching everyone else racing, so it was great to get a fantastic start and control that race
“Ben Ainslie, British skipper, remains optimistic despite the difficult start: “It wasn’t that we did it all wrong, they just sailed a better race”
Competition Continues
The third and fourth races are scheduled for Sunday, October 13. The team that secures seven victories will be crowned champion of the America’s Cup 2024. The British will need to quickly find solutions to counter New Zealand’s dominance if they hope to reverse the trend in this final series.The America’s Cup 2024 promises to be exciting, blending history, technology, and high-level competition. The coming days will reveal whether New Zealand will confirm its supremacy or if Great Britain can create an upset in Catalan waters.