From the start, the USA took an early lead, but it was Italy who quickly seized control, pulling ahead of their rivals within seconds. As the teams powered through the first leg, New Zealand held second place, closely trailing the Italians, with the UK struggling to keep pace after falling off their foils early on. A penalty handed to the UK, following a near collision with New Zealand, further hampered their chances, leaving them in last place by Gate 1.
France, meanwhile, surged to the front at Gate 1 with Italy and the USA hot on their heels. Heading into Leg 2, Italy began to claw back ground, closing a 60-metre gap to the French leaders. In a display of impressive speed, the Italians stormed past their French counterparts mid-leg, clocking in at 36 knots. However, France was not ready to concede, accelerating to 40 knots and briefly retaking the lead.
As the teams approached Gate 2, the competition tightened dramatically. Italy managed to regain control, but the USA, France, and New Zealand were all in close pursuit, with just seconds separating the boats. Italy, showing masterful skill, extended their lead once again in Leg 3, finding perfect wind angles to pull 150 metres ahead of second-placed USA.
Despite the intense chase, the final gate saw Italy and the USA neck and neck. A minor mishap from New Zealand, who lost their foils at a critical moment, allowed the Americans to retake second place. Italy crossed the finish line in 12 minutes and 47 seconds, securing their fourth victory in the competition. The USA followed six seconds later in second place, while France took third.
Further back, Switzerland managed a solid fourth-place finish, with New Zealand and the UK rounding off the race in fifth and sixth positions, respectively.
With this victory, Italy continues to cement its position as one of the strongest contenders in the Youth America’s Cup, while the other teams will look to make their mark in the upcoming races.
