Gusty Conditions Disrupt Racing
Sunday, September 29, dawned with winds of 17-22 knots in Barcelona, a stark contrast to Saturday’s light air that had forced race cancellations. The strong breeze, while exciting for spectators, posed challenges for the teams:
- Racing was initially postponed due to winds exceeding the 21-knot upper limit.
- Alinghi Red Bull Racing, training nearby, capsized their AC75, highlighting the precarious conditions.
Luna Rossa’s Misfortune
The Italian team faced a significant setback before racing could even begin:
- Luna Rossa damaged their mainsail, breaking several battens in the port side.
- The team attempted a hasty sail change, a complex operation typically requiring at least 30 minutes.
- Unfortunately, the wind moderated during their repair efforts, and Luna Rossa was disqualified from Race 3 for having outside assistance aboard.
INEOS Britannia Takes the Lead
The British team benefited from Luna Rossa’s misfortune:
- INEOS Britannia was awarded the win for Race 3 without sailing.
- This victory puts INEOS ahead 2-1 in the series.
Looking Ahead
Despite the day’s setbacks, both teams remain focused on the competition:
- Luna Rossa managed to fit a new mainsail before the start of Race 4.
- The forecast for the remainder of the day predicted winds of 11-15 knots, with potential higher gusts later in the afternoon.
- Race officials scheduled two races for the day, with starts at 14:10 and 15:15 CET.
Spectator Experience
The challenging conditions didn’t dampen enthusiasm for the event:
- Large crowds were expected at the Race Village and Fanzones at Plaça del Mar and Bogatell.
- A substantial spectator fleet gathered on the water to witness the high-stakes racing.
As the Louis Vuitton Cup Final continues, both teams face intense pressure in their bid to challenge Emirates Team New Zealand in the America’s Cup match. With the series now favoring INEOS Britannia, Luna Rossa will be eager to bounce back in the upcoming races.