The preliminary regattas for the 38th America's Cup are underway in Cagliari, ahead of the 2027 challenge in Naples. Four of the five challengers are taking part, along with the defending trophy team, New Zealand, with a total of eight crews competing in the gulf of the Sardinian capital city.

Official trials are today. Eight races are scheduled, three on Friday and three on Saturday, plus two on Sunday, with the final race to decide the winner.

This morning the teams were presented during a press conference at Sa Manifattura, the event's headquarters a few steps from the port of Cagliari.

Peter Burling , Luna Rossa's award-winning helmsman, who was "snatched" from their rivals in New Zealand, is fired up: "We're a great team," he said, "and we want to see what we can achieve together. I'm very excited about the race. There's so much enthusiasm surrounding this event here in Cagliari; there are thousands of people interested in it. We're training really well: there's a great atmosphere."

Marco Gradoni , helmsman of the Luna Rossa Youth team, speaks clearly: "The pressure? Yes, we feel it," said the Roman sailor, "but the others must feel the pressure too. We're ready and focused to do the best we can."

Max Sirena , Luna Rossa's historic skipper and current CEO, is also convinced: «This is an excellent opportunity for us, a great chance to grow together and improve the understanding within the crews».

(Unioneonline)

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