In a tight final in Barcelona, Italy defeated Britain to win first Women's America's Cup.

The Italian foursome celebrated wildly after crossing the finish line in their AC40 monohull foiling, having won the race by eight seconds over the British.

Giulia Conti, Italy's skipper on the America's Cup broadcast said: "Speechless. It's an immense joy."

She added that the cohesion between the team was "just so unique", raising her arms high in the air.

As the first Women's America's Cup Final between the two top teams of twelve unfolded, the Italian and British flags were proudly displayed from cranes above their respective bases.

Hannah Mills, the skipper of the British boat, said "Massive congratulations to Giulia" and the Italian sailors from her boat. She was overcome with tears as she expressed her pride in her team and those who helped.

She added, "I am sure that this is only the beginning."

Mills told the girls, "This is what's happening. It will be your turn soon."

Women have participated in past America's Cup competitions, but the event has always been dominated mostly by men. Physical demands and the lack of women who possess the required experience were cited as reasons for this historical imbalance.

Four of the eight sailors competing in the most recent edition of the America's Cup play roles that do not depend on their strength. This opens up new opportunities for women.

The women who have been selected to sail the identical AC40s with two co-helms paired up on either side of the boat and two trimmers paired up on the opposite side, will push through this door.

Italy won the Youth America's Cup using the smaller AC40 boats, which are now being used in the women's competition. The Italian team was defeated by Britain in the Louis Vuitton Cup and lost its right to compete against New Zealand for America's Cup. (Reporting and editing by Ken Ferris; Alexander Smith)

(source: Reuters)