The dispute between the organiser of the Prada Cup, the challenger qualification, and the Italian team Luna Rossa appears to have been settled. Sailing resumes on Saturday, with two races per day, until one of the two challengers, the British in addition to the Italians, has notched up seven wins. The Italians lead 4:0.
The Cup organiser actually wanted to postpone the races by a week due to the coronavirus outbreak in New Zealand until only warning level 1 would apply for Auckland. This would have made it possible to admit a large audience as before, with the corresponding revenue.
However, the Italian team Luna Rossa did not want to know anything about it, insisted on the agreed dates and was apparently able to assert itself. The Italians wanted to capitalise on their winning streak, and light winds are forecast for the weekend, which have suited them better than the British so far.
The organiser had to cave in, but is obviously not amused. In a statement, Tina Symmans, Chair of America's Cup Events, said: "This is a disappointing situation. Since Sunday, on behalf of everyone in Auckland and all Kiwis, we have worked very hard to ensure the Challenger of Record is a success.(Luna Rossa, the ed.) to give us the opportunity to show honour and respect for this country and postpone the Prada Cup until we have a greater chance for everyone to enjoy and benefit from it. Obviously they have taken the words of their boss Patrizio Bertelli(Team owner of Luna Rossa and Prada boss, the ed.) at the opening press conference, who spoke about how privileged everyone is to be in Auckland without significant Covid restrictions and that therefore everyone has a responsibility to show great sportsmanship so that the Prada Cup can be a great sporting event. "
Symmans is even clearer: "This plea has fallen on deaf ears and it is clear that their focus is solely on Luna Rossa winning the Prada Cup and not on the good of the country that has worked so hard to be able to stage this event."
As long as Corona warning level 2 remains in force, spectators will largely have to stay outside. The restrictions are as follows:
Race courses B and C (close to shore) will not be used to reduce the likelihood of large public gatherings ashore.
No public viewing opportunities such as dock-out shows or public demonstrations of racing in the Race Village.
Gatherings of a maximum of 100 people in the America's Cup Race Village or at public viewing points for spectators in Auckland.
Limited activities in the Race Village with no more than 100 people.
Two metre physical distancing and face masks recommended.
All bars, restaurants and cafes around the Race Village can remain open in accordance with the Department of Health's Covid-19 Level 2 guidelines.
The public is reminded to always scan the NZCOVID19 Tracer App.
The fifth race between Luna Rossa and Ineos Team UK starts on Saturday at 16:15 New Zealand time, 04:15 Saturday morning in Germany. All races will be broadcast live free of charge and are available on the Cup website , on Youtube and Facebook to track. No extra app is required for mobile devices. Replays will be made available on these channels immediately after the end of each race.
Lars Bolle
Chief Editor Digital
