America’s Cup 2021: Luna Rossa reportedly protested against Ineos Team UK over technicalities after the opening day of the Prada Cup

The sensational return of Ineos Team UK on the first day of the Prada Cup has taken a bitter turn, with another challenger reportedly protesting the British boat on a design technicality.

Sir Ben Ainslie’s team stunned the America’s Cup field on Friday during day one action by completing a staggering turnaround to rack up two surprising victories, beating pre-race favorites American Magic by a full 1m 20s, before completing a perfect day with a 28-second win over Italian union Luna Rossa.

Less than a month ago, Ineos performed disastrously in the America’s Cup World Series, failed to win a race and struggled to stay on his foils in the light breeze.

The yacht website Live Sail Die reports that Luna Rossa is protesting the British “for having their line penetrate the skin of the sail in their main fairing.” According to the report, this means a hole in its mainsail that is considered illegal, and is separate from previous protests launched by the Italians “regarding rear stays, substitute weights and stickers.

The outhaul setting helps control the shape of the mainsail and is restricted by the complex rules of the America’s Cup.

the Herald You understand that Ineos has recently installed a new extension adjustment and that they may have tried to maximize movement. It is believed that it would be considered only a “minor infraction”.

Live Sail Die reported that the rule was broken with the new Ineos outhaul, but there is no penalty yet as the part passed in measurement. However, the website noted that Ineos needs to find a solution to fix the problem before their race tomorrow.

It is also believed that Ineos Team UK may have previously protested the failure to use Luna Rossa’s backstays, resulting in a late trade for the record challenger on Friday.

After forgoing the use of a backstay in the America’s Cup World Series, the Italians installed one for their inaugural Prada Cup race, against Ineos Team UK.

The backstay is a sail trim control that runs from the mast to the stern of the boat and affects the shape of the mainsail and headsail.

Luna Rossa was the only team that did not wear one during the America’s Cup World Series as a way to minimize resistance.

Are you going to compete in the Cup?

• Be aware that there will be heavy traffic and parking will be very limited.

• Take your time and consider taking a ferry, train, or bus.

• Make sure your AT HOP card is in your pocket. It is the best way to get to the Cup.

• For more ways to enjoy race day, visit at.govt.nz/americascup.