Patrizio Bertelli Reaffirms Team’s America’s Cup Commitment, Despite Challenger Finals Exit
The day after Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli was eliminated from the Challenger Selection Finals, Patrizio Bertelli, the team’s Chairman, addressed the media about the team’s future. Accompanied by Marco Tronchetti Provera, Executive Vice President of Pirelli (co-title sponsor), and Max Sirena, Skipper and Team Director, Bertelli outlined Luna Rossa’s path forward and reflected on its performance in Barcelona.
Luna Rossa’s Journey and Future Commitment
Bertelli assured fans and supporters that Luna Rossa will continue its campaign for the America’s Cup, remaining under the leadership of Max Sirena. Reflecting on Luna Rossa’s legacy since its establishment in 1997, Bertelli praised the team for elevating Italy’s status in international sailing: “Luna Rossa has brought Italy from the outskirts to the heart of competitive sailing.”
Bertelli emphasized the team’s focus on growth and nurturing talent: “In the last three years, with Max Sirena at the helm, we have rebuilt a team reminiscent of our early days in 2000—defined by a strong sense of belonging, passion, cutting-edge technology, and a mix of young talents, not only as sailors but also as technical experts. We have built a solid foundation to launch our next challenge.”
Reflections on the Challenger Selection Finals
Commenting on the team’s close battles during the Challenger Selection Finals, Bertelli pointed to errors made during critical moments. “Ultimately, the boat that makes fewer mistakes advances,” he stated. “Our boat was very fast—perhaps the fastest I’ve ever had in all my campaigns. The truth of the America’s Cup is that it is highly competitive, and during those two weeks, we made more mistakes than our rivals.”
Bertelli stressed that while an in-depth review of their performance will follow, their boat’s speed and technical capabilities were not to blame. “We’re not in the final simply because we made more errors than the others.”
Embracing the Future of Foiling and the America’s Cup
Looking forward, Bertelli acknowledged the transformation in the America’s Cup format, emphasizing the innovative nature of foiling monohulls like the AC75 and AC40. “The America’s Cup has evolved into a circuit with no historical precedents,” Bertelli noted, comparing the format to earlier competitions in Newport and Auckland. He emphasized the importance of embracing change: “Boats like the AC40 represent a significant innovation, attracting younger generations into sailing. We have to acknowledge that the sport has changed—it’s a different world from the past, and there’s no going back.”
Demonstrating Luna Rossa’s commitment to continuity and development, Bertelli revealed that the AC75 would be back on the water on Wednesday with a youth crew, supported by the main team. This strategy aims to provide new sailors with vital experience while reinforcing the stability and continuity of Luna Rossa’s long-term project.
Continued Support from Pirelli
Marco Tronchetti Provera of Pirelli, a key partner in Luna Rossa’s America’s Cup journey, affirmed the sponsor’s dedication to the team, stating that their relationship would persist despite the recent defeat. “This is just one defeat in a long story of success. We will evaluate the details and the form, but we will continue to support Patrizio Bertelli and Luna Rossa,” Provera commented.
With Bertelli’s reassurance, Luna Rossa is set to continue its pursuit of America’s Cup glory. The team is already taking steps to build on its experience, focus on development, and ensure its long-term competitiveness in one of the most prestigious events in sailing. The next chapter for Luna Rossa is underway, guided by a mix of established leadership, promising new talent, and unwavering support.