From American Magic: NYYC American Magic delivered a crucial victory in Race 6 of the Louis Vuitton Cup Semi-Finals, stunning Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli and narrowing the series deficit to 4-2. With their backs firmly against the wall, American Magic’s win was essential to keep their hopes alive in the battle for the 37th America’s Cup.
The race started under challenging conditions with a light easterly breeze of 6-10 knots and choppy waves. Despite a strong start by American Magic, Luna Rossa gained an advantage on the upwind leg, rounding the first mark with a 47-second lead. On the downwind leg, both teams struggled to stay on the foils. American Magic fought hard to maintain their position, eventually gaining the lead when Luna Rossa incurred a boundary penalty. The race was then shortened to four legs, and American Magic capitalized to pull ahead.
In the final downwind leg, both boats were in displacement mode, but American Magic managed to rise back onto the foils first and secure the win. With this victory, American Magic keeps its challenge alive and heads into Race 7 with renewed hope.
Photo © IAN ROMAN / AMERICA’S CUP