Desafío Español files protest against Mascalzone Capitalia

According to the official America's website, Desafío Español filed a protest against Mascalzone Capitalia for an incident that took place during the race between the two teams on May 2, 2007.

According to the Spanish claim, the Italians breached the ACC rules concerning the use of backstays. According to rule 44.1, "Whilst racing…backstays, topmast backstays and check stays shall remain permanently attached to their fixing points on the mast and the hull, deck or cockpit and in the same load bearing position throughout the race."

According to the Spanish claim, Mascalzone Capitalia breached the rule with the improper use of the backstays.

Here is a series of photos taken from that race:

Prestart of the race between Mascalzone Capitalia and Desafío Español. Valencia, 2 May 2007. Photo copyright Pierre Orphanidis / Valencia Sailing

Mascalzone Capitalia's ITA-99 and Desafío Español's ESP-97 approach the leeward gate. Valencia, 2 May 2007. Photo copyright Pierre Orphanidis / Valencia Sailing

Mascalzone Capitalia's ITA-99 and Desafío Español's ESP-97 approach the leeward gate. Valencia, 2 May 2007. Photo copyright Pierre Orphanidis / Valencia Sailing

Mascalzone Capitalia's ITA-99 during the last stretch of the race's last leg, a few hundred meters before the finish line. Valencia, 2 May 2007. Photo copyright Pierre Orphanidis / Valencia Sailing

Mascalzone Capitalia's ITA-99 crosses the finish line. Valencia, 2 May 2007. Photo copyright Pierre Orphanidis / Valencia Sailing