BARCELONA, Spain — Italy’s Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli has made history by clinching the inaugural Women’s America’s Cup, triumphing over Britain’s Athena Pathway in a thrilling match on Saturday.

From the outset of the competition, Luna Rossa took the lead and maintained their advantage throughout the six-leg race, ultimately crossing the finish line just eight seconds ahead of their British rivals.

In an effort to promote greater female participation in elite sailing, America’s Cup organizers established this all-women event. Although women have participated in prior America’s Cups, none are currently part of the crews in this renowned 173-year-old regatta.

The competition featured a total of 12 teams: six affiliated with America’s Cup teams and six additional invited teams.

The teams competed using AC40 foiling boats, which accommodate four sailors each, a contrast to the larger AC75 boats used in the main America’s Cup, which require eight crew members.

This groundbreaking event aims to pave the way for more women in professional sailing as it garners attention and recognition in a traditionally male-dominated sport.