America’s Cup: Luna Rossa is living in a scary time

First a moment of shock – then a surprising return: The Italian team Luna Rossa is holding the final of the opposition races before the America’s Cup open. The team around led by Jimmy Spithill showed victory on Wednesday. “It’s good to know the team can stand up to the pressure when it counts,” said Spithill after the tie was made 4-4 in the second race of the day against Ineos Britannia.

In the first race, the Italians made a mistake that forced them to retire in the end. “We put the bow in the water. A lot of water came on the deck, so we lost the instruments and part of the fair,” said Francesco Bruni, co-director of Spithill. The mechanics quickly got the high-tech yacht afloat again and Luna Rossa struck back.

Seven wins are needed for Barcelona to move into the Copa America as challengers and fight for the world’s oldest sporting trophy. Defending champions Emirates New Zealand are already set for the cup match from 12 October.