America's Cup sailors at Corum Melges24 World Championship

Two Italian America's Cup teams were represented at the Corum Melges24 World Championship that took place last week in Florida. The first one, Luna Rossa was racing on the boat with the same name, helmed by James Spithill, new Melges24 World Champion. The young Australian helmsman of the America's Cup team proved once again his supremacy and added another world title under his belt. His crew consisted of three Luna Rossa teammates, Jonathan Mckee (main trimmer of the Italian challenger), Charlie Mckee (tactician) and Manuel Modena (main traveller).

Mascalzone Latino - Capitalia Team was not present with a separate entry but their helmsman Flavio Favini was skippering the Blu Moon boat. The Italian 2001 Melges24 World Champion, had a disappointing start but managed to advance considerably in the final rankings, reaching the eighth position.

Enjoy some high-resolution photos from the two America's Cup helmsmen and crews. The next racing event in the calendar of America's Cup fans is the Christmas Race, an ISAF 3 graded event counting towards the World and European Sailing ranking lists, taking place from 26 to 30 December in Spain. The most important entry is Rafael Trujillo, Olympic Finn medallist and tailer of the Italian syndicate +39 Challenge.

James Spithill of Luna Rossa, Melges 24 World Champion. Photo copyright: 2005 JOY Advertizing / IMCA


James Spithill of Luna Rossa, Melges 24 World Champion. Photo copyright: 2005 JOY Advertizing / IMCA


James Spithill at the helms of Luna Rossa is the new Melges 24 World Champion. Photo copyright: 2005 JOY Advertizing / IMCA


Flavio Favini of Mascalzone Latino - Capitalia Team finished eighth at the 2005 Corum Melges 24 World Championship. Photo copyright: 2005 JOY Advertizing / IMCA


Flavio Favini of Mascalzone Latino - Capitalia Team finished eighth at the 2005 Corum Melges 24 World Championship. Photo copyright: 2005 JOY Advertizing / IMCA


Flavio Favini of Mascalzone Latino - Capitalia Team finished eighth at the 2005 Corum Melges 24 World Championship. Photo copyright: 2005 JOY Advertizing / IMCA