PUMA Become The Prey As Telefónica Closes Gap - Volvo Ocean Race Update

PUMA’s buffer over Telefónica was down to just two nautical miles early on Friday as the pair prepared to enter the final 70 miles of Leg 5.With the wind now behind the leading duo, boat speeds were sitting above 10 knots as the dash to the finish line in Itajaí intensified.

Photo: Amory Ross/PUMA Ocean Racing/Volvo Ocean Race

PUMA Ocean Racing powered by BERG still occupied the top spot at 1000 UTC but Telefónica had a slight edge over their rivals, sailing slightly quicker in a few knots more breeze directly south of the leaders.

PUMA media crewmember Amory Ross said while the leaders were concerned about Telefónica’s gains, there was little they could do to stop the advance.

“We’re doing our absolute best but there’s something very disconcerting about watching your lead evaporate sched by sched to a boat thriving in conditions we can’t reach,” he said.

“But therein lies the “bright side:” there is nothing we can really do about Telefónica, so we’ve been focusing on sailing our own boat as best we know how.

“We’re finally coming down, they’re finally coming up, and there’s a good chance sunrise tomorrow will bring some new company on the horizon.

“It’s going to make for a very exciting final day of racing!”

Telefónica MCM Diego Fructuoso said his team were revelling in the thrill of the chase. "We are now gaining lots of miles on our rival PUMA,'' he said. "We all have confidence in the boat and we keep getting close."

The estimated time of arrival for both teams is around 1600 UTC today.

Volvo Ocean Race Media