New Zealand's Black Foils delivered a measured, disciplined performance in Race 2 of SailGP Auckland to level the contest with Australia after the opening race.
Australia had set the early benchmark by claiming Race 1, but the second race unfolded quite differently. The fleet remained tightly compressed through the start, with Switzerland crossing the line early and completing a pre-start penalty, an immediate setback in such a closely packed field.
At Mark 1, the margins between teams were narrow. Australia, the United States and Great Britain were all within seconds of the lead, while New Zealand held position and rounded Mark 2 just 0.9 seconds behind the front runner.
The middle stages proved decisive. Spain and France stayed within striking distance, but a string of penalties began to reshape the race. Brazil was penalised for sailing outside the boundary, Switzerland received a penalty following a port and starboard incident with Italy, and Spain later incurred a mark room penalty involving Sweden. Through it all, New Zealand remained free of disruption.
Maintaining clean air through the final legs, the Black Foils crossed the line in 9:16.565 to secure the win. Spain followed in second, with Great Britain third, 12.3 seconds behind the winner. France finished fourth and Australia fifth.
With two races complete, the regatta remains finely balanced as teams prepare for the next start in Auckland.
