A lack of wind forced officials to postpone the third race of the America’s Cup on the Hauraki Gulf today. The decision was made after race director Harold Bennett extended the start time by 30 minutes, but he called the race off at 3.30pm.

Winds at the time had increased to around eight knots, and Prada appeared keen to sail. The crew had been sailing Luna Rossa around the course with both mainsail and headsail up. In contrast the New Zealanders on Black Magic had been bobbing around, with only a mainsail flying. Light winds are believed to suit Luna Rossa better than moderate or strong winds.

However Bennett has made it clear he will not start racing until winds are settled. The breeze had been varying considerably in direction today before he made the decision not to start. Team New Zealand lead the best of nine series 2-0.