Italia 12 I 7

A Gucci-Backed Challenger and Mediterranean Champion

A New Hope for Italian Sailing

Italia I (I-7) was Italy’s bold step onto the global 12 Metre stage in the mid-1980s—a time of renewed national ambition and intense international competition. Backed by Consorzio Italia, with major sponsorship from the iconic fashion house GUCCI, Italia I was one of the most well-funded and technically advanced yachts of her time.

Designed by Giorgetti & Magrini and launched in 1985, she was the first of two 12 Metre yachts commissioned for Italy’s bid in the 1987 America's Cup—the 26th edition of the historic event, held in Fremantle, Australia.

Cutting-Edge Development

The team spared no effort or expense. With a budget of 12 billion Italian lire, funded by ten prominent sponsors, the design program involved:

  • 1:3 scale tank testing at Wageningen

  • 1:10 scale studies at the Trieste naval model basin

  • Wind tunnel and computational support from Aermacchi, the Italian aerospace company

In addition to building two new yachts—Italia I (I-7) and Italia II (I-9)—the team also acquired Victory 83, a proven British yacht, renamed I-6, to serve as a benchmark and training platform.

A Setback at the Start

Unfortunately, Italia II suffered a devastating accident, falling from the lift during her launch. The extensive damage delayed her preparation, leaving little time for testing. As a result, Italia I was selected as the primary challenger for the Louis Vuitton Cup and America's Cup campaign.

Despite the early promise, organizational challenges and the technical impact of Italia II's accident hindered overall performance. Still, Italia I placed eighth at the 1986 12 Metre World Championship and advanced to the semifinals at the 1987 Louis Vuitton Cup, a strong showing compared to other Italian entries of the era, including Azzurra III.

Revival and Racing Renaissance

Following her America’s Cup campaign, Italia I continued her life on the water, undergoing a thoughtful restoration:

  • An engine was added, allowing for cruising and easier logistics

  • She was re-rigged and entered into the Mediterranean classic racing circuit

From 1995 to 1999, under owners Luigi Scappa (Lecco, Lake Como) and later Corrado Fratini (Marina di Carrara), Italia I enjoyed a remarkable second career:

  • 1996: Second place in the Coppa del Mediterraneo and the Europe Cup

  • 1997: Winner of the Europe Cup, second in the ITMA Cup and AIVE Cup

  • 1999: Second place at the 12 Metre World Championship, just behind Kiwi Magic

Britain's Embrace and Continued Legacy

In 2000, Don J.L. Wood acquired Italia I and brought her to Lymington, UK, where she represented classic 12 Metre racing at the 2001 America’s Cup Jubilee in Cowes, placing eighth among a fleet of historic challengers.

Since 2006, she has been under the stewardship of Richard Rankin, continuing to represent both Italian innovation and 12 Metre heritage in classic yachting circles.

Racing Pedigree: Key Results

  • 1986 World Championship (Perth): Ninth place

  • 1987 Louis Vuitton Cup (Porto Cervo): Semifinalist

  • 1999 World Championship (Saint-Tropez): Second place

  • 2001 America's Cup Jubilee (Cowes): Eighth place

Italia I Today

With her sharp lines, storied past, and enduring speed, Italia I remains a beloved and admired presence on the water. More than just a yacht, she is a symbol of Italian design ambition, resilience after adversity, and the enduring spirit of classic America's Cup competition.

Whether racing in the Mediterranean or gracing the Solent, Italia I continues to sail with the elegance and edge of her origins—proving that even decades later, she still has what it takes to turn heads and chase the breeze.