Bombshell statement from Ben Ainslie and Ineos Britannia crew as there plot dramatic America’s Cup comeback

 

In the world of competitive sailing, twenty-four hours can dramatically alter the course of a regatta. Such was the case on Tuesday off the coast of Barcelona, where the shifting sea state provided Ineos Britannia a lifeline in their series against Emirates Team New Zealand. After trailing 4-0 in the best-of-13 America’s Cup, the British team surged back into contention, closing the gap to 4-2.

The America’s Cup is as much a battle of design as it is of seamanship. Ineos Britannia found an advantage in the heavier winds that characterized the recent races. Their AC75 yacht, built to adapt to a range of conditions, outperformed New Zealand’s vessel, Tahoro, which had been optimized for calmer waters. New Zealand’s design features “dry bulbs” on its foil arm, minimizing surface area in flat conditions but ultimately proving disadvantageous in choppier seas.

Ben Ainslie, the helmsman for Ineos Britannia, acknowledged the design differences but emphasized that successful execution was equally critical. In the sixth race, which they won by a narrow seven seconds

, Ainslie’s crew demonstrated strategic brilliance. They surprised New Zealand during the pre-start phase with a maneuver developed in practice the day before, while their rivals opted to remain on shore, believing the conditions too rough for effective training. This decision backfired, giving the British team a tactical edge and bolstering their confidence.

Ainslie’s admiration for the sport’s history is evident, particularly in his choice of Australian skipper John Bertrand as a role model. Bertrand led Australia II to an iconic comeback in the 1983 America’s Cup, overcoming a 3-1 deficit to secure victory and end the U.S.’s 132-year dominance in the competition. Ainslie, who has himself experienced an incredible comeback as part of Oracle Team USA in 2013, knows the psychological resilience required to defy the odds.

As the regatta progresses, Ainslie’s approach emphasizes humility and respect for his opponents, a strategic mindset that could be crucial as they prepare for the next races. The stage is set for a thrilling continuation of the America’s Cup, with the potential for Ineos Britannia to capitalize on their newfound momentum and push for an even tighter series against the seasoned Kiwis. With the next races looming, all eyes will be on whether Ainslie can continue to steer his team towards an improbable comeback.