America's Cup: Jeddah preliminary races

Luna Rossa and Team New Zealand competed in the final of the second preliminary event in the run-up to the 37th edition of the oldest sailing trophy in the world. 

The second round of preliminary races took place from 29 November to 2 December in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Following the event in Vilanova I La Geltrù, Spain, Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli returned to race – this time in the Red Sea – together with the teams Emirates Team New Zealand (Cup defenders), NYYC American Magic, Ineos Britannia, Alinghi Red Bull Racing and Orient Express Racing.

The Italian team fielded a new formation compared to the first preliminary regatta, with the very young Ruggero Tita and Marco Gradoni at the helm, assisted by trimmers Vittorio Bissaro and Umberto Molineris.

After eight fleet races, with all crews at sea together, the two best teams competed in the final match-race on Saturday, 2 December.

Luna Rossa sailed very well, winning three races and reaching the final with the favourite Team New Zealand.

In the last race, however, a wrong move led the Italian boat to a sudden splash-down, compromising the outcome of the race: the Kiwis went on to win the Jeddah final.

Luna Rossa improved on September’s results in Spain, demonstrating that the team is young, hungry and full of positive energy.

The next event of the America’s Cup will be held in August 2024 in Barcelona, with the third and final phase of the preliminary regattas.