From the outset, both teams displayed remarkable speed, with boats averaging 43 knots. The Swiss team took an early lead, but this advantage was short-lived as the Italians swiftly moved ahead, establishing a 20-metre lead. This aggressive start set the tone for a race marked by constant lead changes and intense pressure from both sides. The Italian team, not shy of asserting their dominance, maintained a high level of aggression, reminiscent of the UK team’s approach in a previous race.
In the opening leg, the Swiss briefly regained the lead, extending their advantage to 50 metres. However, the Italian team was quick to retaliate, demonstrating their determination and tactical acumen. By the time the boats approached the first gate, Italy had secured the lead once again, passing through at 3:14, just four seconds ahead of the Swiss.
As the race progressed into the second leg, Italy managed to widen their lead to 100m. The competition remained fiercely contested, with both teams pushing each other to the limits. By the halfway point of this leg, the Swiss team found themselves trailing by 200m. The Italian team, maintaining their pace, passed through the second gate with the Swiss 11 seconds behind.
The conditions on the course were challenging, with the lowest wind speeds around 6.4 knots and the boats moving at approximately 30 knots. As the wind began to diminish, it became increasingly difficult for the teams to stay on their foils, adding an extra layer of complexity to the race. Despite these conditions, Italy continued to build their lead, which now stretched to 300m.
The Italians passed through the third gate at 10:05, with the Swiss following 28 seconds later. The final leg saw the Italian team accelerate impressively, extending their lead as the Swiss struggled to navigate around the gate. By the halfway point of the fourth leg, Italy led by a significant 500 metres. The Swiss, however, began to make a comeback, reducing the gap to 250m.
The fourth mark saw Italy through at 13:31, with the Swiss 21 seconds behind and experiencing a minor touchdown, costing speed while they regained full foils. The conditions were deteriorating, with growing swells from the east making it increasingly difficult for the boats to maintain stability. Despite these challenges, the Italian team continued to press forward with relentless energy.
As the boats approached the final gate, Italy passed through at 16:28, having maintained a substantial lead of 150 metres over the Swiss. But then the gap widened to 300 metres, with the Swiss struggling to close in. The final leg saw the Italian team pushing hard, with the Swiss attempting to catch up but falling short. The Swiss were unable to match the Italians’ speed and aggressive tactics, ultimately finishing the race 400 metres behind.
Italy crossed the finish line at 22:08, securing a well-deserved victory. The Swiss followed 26 seconds later, but their performance throughout the semi-finals had been disappointing. This loss marked their fifth defeat in the semi-finals, casting a shadow over their campaign and leaving them with a lot to reflect on.
The race highlighted Italy’s exceptional sailing skills, with their ability to adapt to changing conditions and maintain a high level of performance throughout the race. For Switzerland, the semi-finals have been a tough journey, and their inability to secure a win has been a significant setback.
