If you’re a sailing enthusiast, you may be eagerly awaiting the start of the Prada Cup. This prestigious sailing event is a precursor to the America’s Cup, and it will determine which team will challenge the current holders of the cup in March 2021.
What is the Prada Cup?
The Prada Cup is a series of races that will be held in Auckland, New Zealand starting on January 15, 2021. It will feature three teams: Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli Team (Italy), INEOS TEAM UK (Great Britain), and American Magic (USA). These teams will compete for the right to challenge Emirates Team New Zealand in the America’s Cup.
When does it start?
The Prada Cup kicks off on January 15, 2021 with a race between Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli Team and American Magic. The race schedule is as follows:
- January 15-24: Round Robin
- January 29-February 2: Semi-Finals
- February 13-22: Finals
During the Round Robin phase, each team will race against each other twice. The top two teams will advance to the Semi-Finals, while the third-placed team will be eliminated. The winner of the Semi-Finals will then face off against the top-placed team in the Finals.
The Boats
All three teams competing in this year’s Prada Cup are using AC75 class boats. These boats are designed specifically for racing in high winds and rough waters, making them perfect for Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf.
Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli Team
Luna Rossa’s boat is named “Luna Rossa AC75”. It has a sleek black and silver design, with the team’s iconic red prancing horse logo emblazoned on the side.
INEOS TEAM UK
INEOS TEAM UK’s boat is named “Britannia”. It features a bold Union Jack design on its hull, and it’s said to be one of the fastest boats in the competition.
American Magic
American Magic’s boat is named “Patriot”. It has a striking blue and red design, with an eagle’s head emblazoned on the side. The team is led by legendary sailor Terry Hutchinson, who has competed in four America’s Cup campaigns.
Conclusion
The Prada Cup promises to be an exciting event for sailing fans around the world. With three top-tier teams competing for the chance to challenge Emirates Team New Zealand in the America’s Cup, there will be plenty of high-stakes racing action to enjoy. So mark your calendars for January 15th and get ready for some thrilling sailing!