Kusznierewicz/Prada secure fifth straight victory at the 97th Bacardi Cup

Miami, March 9, 2024 – The climax of The 97^th Bacardi Cup and Bacardi Invitational Regatta was a day of anticipation and pressure. The relaxed and friendly atmosphere in the boat park this morning belied the intensity about to unfold racing against many of the best sailors in the world.

All eyes were riveted on the three-way tie-break to determine the winners of The 97^th Bacardi Cup. Biscayne Bay set the stage for a spectacular finale, kicking off with a building 12 knots breeze and waves.

With unwavering focus, Mateusz Kusznierewicz/Bruno Prada controlled the fleet from start to finish, clinching an unprecedented fifth consecutive victory and once again forced the chasing fleet to walk in their shadow.

In the Melges 24, Snipe, and VX One Classes, Bora Gulari, Ernesto Rodriguez, and Christopher Alexander emerged triumphant, with back-to-back race wins. ‘Dark Energy’ consolidated its position in the J/70, while Marek Zaleski advanced from third to first in the Viper 640.

Eddie Cutillas, Bacardi USA, praised all involved, saying, “It was a tremendous week. The Bacardi Cup and the Bacardi Invitational is a feeling like family. Bacardi is all about family and heritage, and we feel that this fits in perfectly with our mission at this regatta. Six days of world class racing meld seamlessly into shoreside friendship and fun. Thanks to each and every one of you for being part of our unique annual sailing celebration.”

The 97^th Bacardi Cup and Bacardi Invitational Regatta brought together over 200 teams, setting a new record for the event. More than 600 sailors from 25 nations, spanning North and South America, Europe and Asia competed for some of sailing’s most coveted titles.

Save the date for next year and come sail with us from March 2-8, 2025.