In a spectacular showdown that captivated sailing enthusiasts worldwide, Team Emirates New Zealand clinched the America’s Cup for an unprecedented third consecutive time, besting the INEOS Britannia challengers with a final score of 7-2 in the race series held in Barcelona. The victory, achieved on Saturday, came after a nail-biting two days where the British team had briefly ignited hopes of a return to glory, winning two successive races that narrowed the series to 4-2.
However, the Kiwis surged back, decisively winning two more races on Friday before sealing their historic three-peat with a dramatic finish 37 seconds ahead of INEOS in the final race. The black-clad team celebrated their victory by spraying Moët champagne, dousing the cherished America’s Cup trophy as thousands of Kiwi fans cheered from the sidelines, having traveled from afar to witness their team's feat.
This 37th edition of the America’s Cup marked a significant shift in the event’s storied history, evolving into an extravagant ten-month spectacle unlike any before. Traditionally viewed as a solemn regatta, it transformed into a vibrant international festival in Barcelona, where sponsors such as Red Bull injected a sense of youthful energy into the proceedings. The event boasted thrilling performances, featuring BMX riders, breakdancers, and cliff divers, setting the stage for an untraditional sailing event.
Barcelona’s bustling waterfront became the heart of the action, with millions of visitors flocking to experience the competition firsthand. The event organizers anticipated reaching over a billion viewers globally, showcasing cutting-edge technology through multiple cameras and drone cinematography that captured the exhilarating speed of the racing yachts.
Moreover, the America’s Cup provided significant economic benefits for the host city, contributing approximately one billion Euros and creating around 20,000 jobs throughout its duration. The local community actively engaged with the Cup, highlighted by a captivating opening ceremony featuring renowned Catalonian performers and impressive drone displays.
While the grandeur of the event drew attention, it wasn't without controversy. Several local activists rallied against the perceived excess associated with the Cup. Nevertheless, many locals, including a journalist who chose to remain unnamed, argued that the Cup brought in tourists with a more refined taste, enhancing Barcelona’s global reputation.
Despite the defeat, INEOS Britannia’s efforts – backed by a budget exceeding $150 million – symbolized the relentless pursuit of the coveted trophy. Led by celebrated skipper Ben Ainslie, the British team’s journey reaffirms the enduring allure of the America’s Cup, a testament to the complexity and cutthroat competition inherent in this time-honored sport.
As INEOS prepares for a potential rematch in the future, the legacy of the 37th America’s Cup promises to elevate the event’s status, making it not only a race for the trophy but a celebration of innovation, camaraderie, and the spirit of sailing that transcends national boundaries.
Credits: America’s Cup