America's Cup 2021: Good and bad news for INEOS Team UK in practice race

American Magic and INEOS Team UK race. Photo / Dean Purcell

There was good and bad news for the INEOS Team UK in the first America's Cup trial on Tuesday.

Ben Ainslie's team finally managed to complete a trial, after being absent over the last week due to gear failure.

But Britannia ll still looked badly off the pace, after a good start, and seemed to struggle to get optimum lift and speed on the foils.

In around 10 knots, Ainslie won the start against Dean Barker and American Magic, timing his run to the line perfectly.

American Magic during thier practice race. Photo / Dean Purcell

But soon afterward the British were forced to tack, as the Americans gained speed on the other side of the course.

It was slightly ungainly, and the British didn't get close again, as Patriot powered away, though both teams appeared to be focused on their own set manoeuvres in the second leg.

Luna Rossa looks on at Team NZ's boat. Photo / Dean Purcell

Just yesterday, Team UK had to be towed back to their base after calling it quits in their trial race against Team NZ soon after completing a single gybe.

The mysterious problems plaguing the British team are yet to be commented on as it fast becomes the most intriguing story in the build-up to the World Series later this week.

Enjoy smooth sailing to the Cup with Auckland Transport

• Avoid traffic congestion and parking niggles and download the AT Mobile app to plot your bus, train or ferry ride to race venues before you leave home.

• Make sure your AT HOP card is in your pocket. It's the best way to ride to the Cup

• For more ways to enjoy race day, visit at.govt.nz/americascup