Italy leads 1-0 against US in America’s Cup playoffs

The playoffs for the 37th America’s Cup commenced on Saturday in Barcelona, Spain, with Italy’s Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli taking an early lead against NYYC American Magic. The American team initially held the advantage, but Luna Rossa maintained close contact throughout the race. They ultimately surged ahead on the fifth leg of the six-leg course, securing a 1-0 lead in the series. This playoff series is part of a larger competition where the first team to achieve five wins will advance. The other series features INEOS Britannia competing against Switzerland’s Alinghi Red Bull Racing, with both series scheduled for two races on the same day. The stakes are high, as the last boat remaining from the two playoff rounds will earn the prestigious Louis Vuitton Cup and face the defending champion, Team Emirates New Zealand, in the America’s Cup final set for October. Luna Rossa has a history of strong performances, having previously swept American Magic 4-0 in the 2021 America’s Cup playoffs. They also defeated the British team in the subsequent round before facing New Zealand in the finals. The winner of the previous America’s Cup automatically secures a spot in the next final, along with the privilege of organizing the event and setting the race rules.