The Start: A Penalty Changes Everything
The second race between these two rivals today saw immediate drama as INEOS Britannia was handed a penalty at the start, giving Alinghi Red Bull Racing an early advantage. The Swiss were quick to capitalise, surging ahead by 50 metres as the British crew scrambled to recover.
But INEOS Britannia, unfazed by the early setback, immediately fought back. In a stunning reversal, the UK team closed the gap and overtook Alinghi, taking a narrow lead halfway through the first leg. By the time they reached Gate 1, INEOS had extended their lead to 130 metres, clocking in at 4 minutes and 27 seconds—clearly signalling their intent to dominate.
INEOS Shifts Into Overdrive
After passing through Gate 1, the British crew shifted into up a gear. Their speed was unmatched as they rocketed ahead, quickly putting a staggering 400 metres between them and the Swiss. It was a dramatic reversal of the previous race, where the Swiss had controlled the action. Now, it was INEOS Britannia’s turn to dictate the pace, and they did so with ruthless precision.
However, the race was not without its hiccups for the British. At one point, INEOS lost control of their rudder momentarily, giving the Swiss a glimmer of hope as they closed the gap to 250 metres. Yet, the British team’s superior speed and focus allowed them to recover quickly, passing through Gate 2 at 7 minutes and 59 seconds with a comfortable lead.
Swiss Desperation, British Dominance
With their America’s Cup campaign hanging in the balance, Alinghi Red Bull Racing was running out of time—and options. The Swiss team trailed by 350 metres halfway through the third leg, desperately trying to close the gap as they went through Gate 3 at 12 minutes 44 seconds, 50 seconds behind the British.
INEOS Britannia was relentless, powering through Gate 4 at 17 minutes and 11 seconds, maintaining a lead that all but sealed their victory. The Swiss, to their credit, gave it everything they had, but it was clear that INEOS had the upper hand. As the British team entered the final leg, their speed and precision were simply unbeatable. At this stage, the Swiss were still 230 metres behind, and the gap was widening.
A Heartbreaking End for Alinghi Red Bull Racing
The final blow to Alinghi’s campaign came in the last leg. Struggling to maintain their speed, the Swiss fell off their foils—an error from which they could not recover. As INEOS Britannia sailed through the final gate at 21 minutes and 13 seconds, it was clear that they were on the path to victory. Alinghi Red Bull Racing limped through, having lost crucial time and momentum.
By the time INEOS Britannia crossed the finish line at 23 minutes and 47 seconds, the race was effectively over. The Swiss team, finishing some distance behind, saw their America’s Cup dreams evaporate. It was a valiant effort, but today belonged to the British.
Rule Britannia, Britannia Rules The World (well, this Semi-Final Group)
For INEOS Britannia, this race was a statement. After suffering in the previous match, they came back stronger, faster, and more focused. This victory not only sends them to the finals but also serves as a warning to their future opponents. They are not a team to be underestimated.
As for Alinghi Red Bull Racing, their America’s Cup journey ends here. Despite their exit, they leave the competition with their heads held high, having put up a fierce fight in the Challenger Series.
With this decisive win, INEOS Britannia has now earned their place in the America’s Cup finals. The question remains: can they carry this momentum all the way to glory?
