Sep 30, 2024
The races of the Louis Vuitton Cup continue with a maximum level of equality between the two finalists. After the trials on Saturday, September 28, and Sunday, September 29, Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli and INEOS Britannia closed the weekend with a 2-2 tie, in a scenario that has challenged both the tactics and the technical skills of the teams.
On Saturday, the 28th, the race course off Barcelona presented sustained wind conditions that favored INEOS Britannia, allowing them to take advantage of a strategy of field control and optimization of the upwind angle. The British team executed an almost perfect race, controlling the pre-start phases and maintaining an advantage at every mark, securing a victory that tied the series 1-1.
On Sunday, the 29th, the weather conditions imposed an additional challenge, with stronger winds that forced the teams to fine-tune their maneuvers and adjust their foils and rig setups. Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli, with an aggressive tactic, managed not only to control the wind at the start but also set a new speed record in the Cup, reaching 53.38 knots. However, only one race could be held due to suspension for lack of time, maintaining the tie in the final series.
The standings remain tight after the four races held:
In terms of technical performance, both teams have shown excellent adaptability. INEOS has optimized upwind performance with a foil configuration that minimizes drag, while Luna Rossa has improved their downwind control, standing out for their efficiency in controlling their angle of attack and recovery ability during transitions.
With weather conditions playing a crucial role, the series continues with an uncertain outcome. The teams will need to keep adjusting their foil and rig setups to maximize their performance based on wind forecasts. The pre-start phases will be key, as control of the starting line and the choice of tack will continue to be crucial in the tactics of both crews.