Margherita Porro, the helmswoman of Luna Rossa

The young sailor talks about the journey that led her to the Youth & Women’s team, the challenges of the America’s Cup, and her relationship with Marco Gradoni

Margherita Porro was co-helmswoman of Luna Rossa’s Youth & Women team and, alongside Marco Gradoni, shone in the America’s Cup preliminary races held in May in the Gulf of Cagliari, in Sardinia, a region that has been a major international hub for the America’s Cup since 1983. Growing up on Lake Iseo, she forged her career through dinghies, youth regattas, and a gradual leap toward professional sailing, ultimately entering the world of major international competitions. Determination, clear-headedness, and the ability to manage pressure are now the distinctive traits of a young sportswoman who is already central to the 2027 America’s Cup project.

Margherita, how different is helming a AC40 compared to the boats you grew up with?

The AC40 is like a spaceship compared to dinghies, but the feel isn’t that different. The sensations still come from the tiller and sails, even though we’re sitting there with helmets and instruments. You can really ‘feel’ the boat physically – almost right in your ‘butt.’

What’s the most important quality for a helmsman in the America’s Cup?

Remaining calm in difficult situations. We also work on managing pressure, because it’s essential to stay focused, bounce back after mistakes, and not let them weigh you down.

How important is the relationship with teammates like Marco Gradoni?

It’s very important. With Marco, the key was to talk to each other frankly but constructively. If something isn’t right, we tell each other right away. On the boat, you need total trust: everyone must do their job without interference.

What races have shaped your growth?

My first victory as a youngster was crucial for my confidence. Then, the Youth Championships marked my transition to the world of seniors. Other important steps were joining the Fiamme Gialle (Italian Financial Police) and the mental training, which changed my approach to competition.

How do you maintain a clear head under pressure?

I try to simplify everything and follow my own pace. I don’t think about the result, but about the execution. It also helps me to create a mental ‘bubble’ to isolate myself from distractions and stay focused on what I have to do.

What is your goal for Naples 2027?

The dream is to win, but even more so to build a truly close-knit crew. Without that cohesion, even the greatest results lose their value. The magic of the group is the foundation of everything.

What differences do you expect between Cagliari and Naples?

Naples is a more unpredictable and ‘exciting’ course. In Cagliari, we know the conditions better, while there we’ll always need to stay very focused and ready to adapt.

Do you have superstitious rituals?

Well, of course, like all sailors (laughs)... I have a small gesture: I draw a heart on my hand to remind myself of my ‘bubble’ and my priorities. For the rest I just try to stay myself, at all times.