Defending champions New Zealand got off to a strong start in the America’s Cup

(dpa) Defending champions New Zealand dominated the start of the America’s Cup final. The “Taihoro” is 2-0 ahead in the sailing duel with the “Britannia” off Barcelona after the first race. New Zealand’s co-pilots Peter Burling and Nathan Outteridge and their crew controlled the first run and won by 41 seconds and more than 400 meters ahead. The second race initially ended in a more competitive manner, but in the end the New Zealander again confidently prevailed with a lead of 27 seconds and 300 meters.

“That wasn’t the start we wanted. “The Kiwis sailed two really good races,” said Britannia helmsman Ben Ainslie. “But I am confident that the team will find answers to this and we can come back tomorrow and collect points for the account,” he added.

“Britannia” will be the first ever British victory

New Zealanders and Brits each want to write a new America’s Cup chapter: The four-time Cup winners Emirates Team New Zealand could become the first team to win sailing’s most important silverware three times in a row. The “Britannia” co-pilots Ben Ainslie and Dylan Fletcher have their sights set on the first victory in the 173-year history of the Cup.

The America’s Cup premiere took place in 1851 off the Isle of Wight in southern England. The 37th duel for the pot continues on Sunday with races three and four. The first team to score seven points wins the America’s Cup.