THE STORY
In February 2010, during the 33rd America's Cup in Valencia, Spain, defending champion Alinghi faced challenger BMW Oracle Racing. Alinghi's catamaran, Alinghi 5, was outpaced by Oracle's trimaran, USA 17, which featured a revolutionary wing sail. Oracle won the best-of-three series 2-0, reclaiming the Cup for the United States after 18 years. (press.bmwgroup.com)
TEAMS / PEOPLE:
Alinghi, BMW Oracle Racing
WHY IT MATTERS
Alinghi's choice of a giant catamaran over a trimaran with a wing sail led to a significant technological disadvantage, resulting in a swift loss of the America's Cup. (press.bmwgroup.com)