The fourth leg of the 52 SUPER SERIES 2025 concluded in Puerto Portals with a convincing victory for American Magic Quantum Racing, reinforcing their lead in the championship. The reigning world champions added another win in Palma Bay, an event the fleet holds in high regard for its atmosphere and competitive intensity.
Behind them, Sled secured second place after a solid final day, while Alpha+ surprised many by claiming third, reflecting their steady progress. The Italian team Alkedo Vitamina, helmed by Andrea Lacorte, could not make the overall podium but celebrated victory in the Owner Driver category, a key target for their campaign.
Puerto Portals once again delivered its trademark spectacle: a week that began with unsettled weather and ended with two thrilling final races, creating a unique atmosphere both on shore and on the water.
The ninth race took place in around eight knots of north-westerly breeze, typical for the bay. Provezza opted for the pin end under the guidance of local navigator Nacho Postigo, while Paprec and Alkedo got away well. American Magic, needing only to consolidate their advantage, sailed the middle of the course. Sled found a favourable shift to the right and moved into the lead, followed by Vayu, while a tense tacking duel developed in the centre of the fleet among Platoon, Gladiator, and the Americans.
With Checco Bruni calling tactics, Sled maintained the lead to the finish, crossing ahead of Platoon, Vayu, Gladiator, and Alkedo Vitamina.
The final race still had plenty at stake for the podium. Sled started with a six-point cushion over Alkedo and Alpha+, while Alegre and Vayu also hoped to close in. After a first start was abandoned due to a wind shift, the second attempt saw Platoon Aviation time it perfectly, while American Magic were called over the line early. Alpha+ led at the first windward mark, followed by Platoon and Vayu. On the downwind leg, the German boat Harm Müller-Spreer surged through the middle to take the lead. Platoon won the race, Alpha+ secured the event’s podium, and Sled held second. Alkedo finished ninth in that race, placing fourth overall but retaining third in the season standings with high hopes for Porto Cervo.
Terry Hutchinson (USA), tactician, American Magic Quantum Racing, said: “It was a long week with plenty of hard work, but overall very positive. We didn’t sail perfectly every day – we were even OCS in one race – but we fought back and achieved our goal. There is still room for improvement, which motivates us as we head to Porto Cervo.”
Don Cowie (NZL), trimmer, Sled, added: “We’re delighted with second place. It was a challenging week with mistakes to fix, but the team responded well. If Porto Cervo brings us 20 knots of Mistral and flat water, perfect. American Magic are the benchmark right now, but our aim is to finish the season on the overall podium.”
Ian Moore (GBR), navigator, Alpha+, said: “Consistent performance this week allowed us to climb onto the podium. Nothing is given away in this class, and we want to keep challenging our rivals.”
Alberto Bolzan (ITA), trimmer, Alkedo Vitamina, said: “We are happy with our fourth place this week and Andrea Lacorte’s win among the owner drivers. It’s great motivation for Porto Cervo.”
Seeing their recent performances, it’s clear why American Magic consistently makes a difference. They combine Olympic-level skill, America’s Cup experience, and tacticians who make precise decisions under pressure. Technology plays a key role: advanced data systems, simulators, onboard sensors, and meteorological tools allow the boat and strategy to be fine-tuned with great precision. Their TP52 is continuously optimised, with Quantum sails and setups tailored to each venue based on careful study of local conditions.
Organisation is another strength. American Magic plans each season well in advance, maintains a stable core crew for smooth communication, and focuses on consistency, avoiding mistakes while steadily accumulating points. Backing from the New York Yacht Club and strong sponsors allows them to invest in innovation and access top-level resources.
It is this combination of skill, technology, preparation, and stability that explains why American Magic has become a leading force in the 52 Super Series and international sailing.
With the Puerto Portals chapter complete, the 52 SUPER SERIES now moves to Porto Cervo (22–27 September), where the season finale promises to be spectacular and the championship titles will be decided.
