Emirates Team New Zealand has taken a firm step towards defending its title in the 37th edition of the America’s Cup, after winning two key events this Thursday in Barcelona. With an impeccable reading of the complex wind conditions and perfect execution on the water, the Kiwis have beaten INEOS Britannia, leaving the score at a resounding 6-2, just one victory away from sealing their triumph in this prestigious competition.
The day began with Ben Ainslie and Dylan Fletcher, Britannia’s coxswains, trying to dominate the start with an aggressive strategy. Although they managed to put themselves in a favorable position, Emirates Team New Zealand, led by Peter Burling, was able to take advantage of the changing wind and gain a decisive advantage in the first race. With masterful control of the boat, the New Zealanders extended their advantage section by section, crossing the finish line with one minute and 13 seconds ahead of the British.
In the second race, the wind roles continued to be the key factor. Even though INEOS Britannia tried to react with risky tactical decisions, the Kiwis maintained their dominance, gaining a lead of 55 seconds at the end of the course, which put the defending champions one step away from final victory.
Ben Ainslie, maintains hope of a comeback:
“We have to win five more, but anything is possible. I have always believed that pressure is a privilege.”
Andy Maloney, starboard trimmer of Emirates Team New Zealand, highlighted the fluid communication between his crew members as one of the decisive factors of the day: “It has been very satisfying to sail with this wind, the four of us have interpreted it in a very similar way , so communications have been very fluid.” Maloney also highlighted the importance of the technique used in swell conditions, which allowed the team to maintain control at all times.
For his part, the INEOS Britannia skipper acknowledged the difficulty of the day for the British team, stating that “everything revolved around roles and pressure.”
With the score 6-2 in favor of Emirates Team New Zealand, the 37th America’s Cup could be decided on the next day, although the weather conditions expected for Saturday could postpone the outcome until Sunday. Fans, who have come from all over the world to witness this intense competition, are preparing for what promises to be an exciting finale in Barcelona.
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