Mascalzone helmsman too upset to sail

11.45am - by HELEN TUNNAH and JULIE ASH

UPDATE - Mascalzone Latino's Paolo Cian dropped a bombshell on his team this morning announcing he didn't want to be on the boat for today's racing in the Louis Vuitton Cup challenger series.

Cian told his team the news at 6.30am.

Cian, from Naples, is considered one of Italy's top sailors. He had been at the helm of Mascalzone for almost all their races, although yesterday tactician Flavio Favini took the helm after the start.

Favini was named helmsman for this morning's race against GBR Challenge. Mascalzone has a bye this afternoon.

Mascalzone nearly upset Prada yesterday but bungled a gybe on the home run allowing Prada to storm past and claim the win.

Mascalzone Latino communications manager Lara Ciribi said it is hoped Cian will return for further racing.

"Paolo didn't feel right being on the boat today. He didn't explain why but we think he is just stressed after yesterday's events.

"We really hope to have him back tommorrow."

After hearing the news of Cian's decision, Mascalzone Latino boss Vincenzo Onorato wrote Cian a letter saying they hope to have him aboard tomorrow.

The Italian syndicate has just one win from 13 races so far, and is battling the winless French team Le Defi Areva to avoid being knocked out of the competition after the two round robins.

Mascalzone Latino team profile

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