Luna Rossa Calls Time On The America's Cup

Sad news reached The Afterguard this afternoon concerning the future of Italian America's Cup team Luna Rossa.

Prada today announced that Luna Rossa Challenge will not be returning to challenge for the 33rd America's Cup.

Luna Rossa's Patrizio Bertelli: “We challenged in three campaigns of the America’s Cup and we had ten very intense years. It has been an unforgettable experience, both from a sports and human perspective. I want to thank the team, the Telecom Italia Group, Intesa Sanpaolo, the other sponsors and the Yacht Club Italiano who have constantly and enthusiastically supported us. From a corporate standpoint, participating in these three campaigns has allowed us to acquire and develop precious skills, experience, and visibility for our Group. I hope that another Italian team will be able to compete in the next edition and to keep Italy at the top of the game in the America’s Cup.”

Prada: "Participation in the next America's Cup was carefully analysed and, while significant human and financial resources are already available, it was decided that after three campaigns a cycle has come to an end".

Sources: BYM, Reuters. See the original Italian release at Luna Rossa e dintorni. Inset image: Photo © Luna Rossa Challenge