October 4, 2024, will be etched in British sailing history. After a 60-year absence, INEOS Britannia has qualified for the America’s Cup final by winning the prestigious Louis Vuitton Cup against Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli.
A Decisive Victory
In ideal conditions with 12-15 knot winds and flat seas, INEOS Britannia delivered a masterful performance. The British crew, led by the legendary Sir Ben Ainslie, crossed the finish line 17 seconds ahead of the Italians, sealing their victory in the series 7 points to 4.This final race was the culmination of a week of fierce competition between the two teams. Although the first eight races were very close, INEOS Britannia managed to find a slight performance edge in the last two days, allowing them to secure three consecutive victories.
A Historic Moment
Sir Ben Ainslie, skipper and team director, emphasized the significance of this moment:
“This is a huge moment for the team. It’s taken 10 years of hard work to get here, so I’m incredibly proud of the team.”
This victory marks the return of a British yacht to the America’s Cup final for the first time since 1964, ending a 60-year wait.
The Road to the America’s Cup
The Challenge Ahead
INEOS Britannia will now face the defender, Emirates Team New Zealand, in a best-of-13 series to win the most coveted trophy in sailing.
Key Dates
- Start of the final: October 12, 2024
- Format: First to 7 wins series
A Historic Duel in Prospect
The British will be looking to end 173 years of waiting to win their first America’s Cup. Facing them, the New Zealand team, two-time defending champions (2017 and 2021), will start with the advantage of having chosen the rules and venue for the competition.
A Remarkable Journey
INEOS Britannia has overcome initial predictions that placed them behind Luna Rossa and American Magic. Thanks to financial backing from billionaire Jim Ratcliffe and a partnership with the Mercedes Formula 1 team, the British have developed the fastest boat in the challenger fleet.This Louis Vuitton Cup victory is all the sweeter as it erases the 7-1 defeat suffered against Luna Rossa in the 2021 edition in Auckland.The stage is now set for an epic final of the 37th America’s Cup. INEOS Britannia will attempt to become only the fifth country to inscribe its name on the list of winners of this legendary competition, facing a determined New Zealand team looking to retain their title.