Italy and USA Shine in Pool A, While Sweden and Spain Battle It Out in a Dramatic Pool B Finish
The UniCredit Youth America’s Cup has been heating up in Barcelona, where the world's brightest young sailing talent went head-to-head in thrilling conditions. With six races completed, Spain and Great Britain grabbed the last two spots in the semi-finals, marking a huge step forward for both teams.
For Spain’s Sail Team BCN, the hometown heroes, the day ended on a high with a decisive win in the final race. Led by Martin Wizner and Conrad Konitzer, the team has improved with each race, showcasing sharp communication and slick boat handling. As Wizner put it, “We went really fast today...it was all about sailing, sailing, sailing.” Now, they’re gearing up for an even bigger challenge in the semi-finals.
Sweden’s Swedish Challenge powered by Artemis Technologies and Australia’s Andoo Team also secured their semi-final spots with consistently strong performances. These teams have been neck and neck throughout the competition, pushing each other to new levels. Swedish skipper Ludvig Lindqvist is confident but cautious, knowing that the semi-finals are a whole new ball game: “It’s a new regatta now...we’ve got to be on it at the start.”
Meanwhile, Andoo Team Australia’s Cole Tapper believes his team is ready to surprise everyone in the next round. “We know we’re fast,” Tapper said, reflecting on the team's impressive progress so far. “Our boat-handling is better...we’re getting a lot more rock solid.”
For Great Britain’s Athena Pathway, securing third place in the qualifying series was no easy feat. Their last race was a nail-biter, with the team just edging out New Zealand. Co-helm James Grummett is staying grounded, though, saying, “We’re still learning so much...we’ll take what we’ve learned and put it into practice tomorrow.”
With six teams set for the semi-finals, all eyes are on tomorrow’s races to determine who will advance to the UniCredit Youth America’s Cup Final. The competition couldn’t be tighter, and the stage is set for some of the most exciting youth racing yet. Bring it on!
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