Day 2 of the 37th America’s Cup – Can Ineos pull back from the brink?
Following a tough first day, INEOS Britannia has to secure some victories to prevent a potential clean sweep against them, having lost their first two matches in the America’s Cup on Saturday.
DAY 2 RACE UPDATE: The wind is light, currently at 9 knots and decreasing.
15:15 BST – AC37 Race 4 – Details to be announced
13:10 BST – AC37 Race 3 – Emirates Team New Zealand received a 75-meter penalty against Ineos but still managed to secure a strong start. At Gate 1, New Zealand was ahead by 19 seconds. By Gate 2, their lead had increased to 27 seconds. They maintained their advantage at Gate 3 with a 32-second lead, followed by 33 seconds at Gate 4, and 43 seconds at Gate 5. In the end, Emirates Team New Zealand triumphed by 52 seconds, finishing over 600 meters ahead.
After the festivities and unexpected media frenzy surrounding their victory in the Louis Vuitton Trophy, which made them the first British team to challenge for the America's Cup in over six decades, the team had to confront the reality of the challenges ahead.
The two relatively simple victories by the defenders, Emirates Team New Zealand, showcased the challenge ahead for them as they aim to be the first British team to secure the Auld Mug in its 173-year history.
Ben Ainslie, a crucial player for the American team that turned the tables from a 1-8 deficit to clinch a 9-8 victory in 2013, believes there is always another opportunity on the horizon—another day, another race, and another shot at victory.
It's worth noting that that well-known Cup comeback happened against Emirates Team New Zealand! So, don't anticipate the Kiwis taking it easy at all until they’ve assured themselves of a solid win.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the supporter of INEOS Britannia, has announced that regardless of the outcome in this event, he plans to stick with the team. However, it’s likely that he would rather see them as the defending champions of the 38th America’s Cup.
Day 2 of the races is set to begin at 1:00 PM UK time (2:00 PM CST) on Sunday, October 13.
Air Conditioner Weather Update:
Wind – Coming from the east at 11 knots, reducing to 6 knots.
Please note that the wind speed at 13:49 BST was recorded at 6 knots.
Sea Condition – E 0.7 meters with a 4-second interval between waves.
Temperature: 20 degrees Celsius, Overcast Conditions
The British squad is headed by Ben Ainslie, while the New Zealand team is directed by Peter Burling.
The 37th America’s Cup is claimed by the team that secures victories in seven races first.
The plan features racing days consisting of two races each on October 12, 13, 16, 18, 19, 20, and 21, as needed.
