ISLE of Wight sailor Leigh McMillan, led by skipper and former Islander Sir Ben Ainslie, has made local sailing history by being part of the first British yacht's crew to compete for the America’s Cup trophy in more than 60 years.

INEOS Britannia have become the top challenger in the Louis Vuitton Cup, after defeating Italian team, Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli, 7-4 in a closely contested series.

The closely fought duel between the top two challengers was much tighter than the scoreline suggests.

The 11-race series was evenly matched during the first eight races.

INEOS Britannia's Island-born crewman, Leigh McMillan. INEOS Britannia's Island-born crewman, Leigh McMillan. (Image: INEOS Britannia) However, Britannia managed to secure three consecutive race wins on the final two days of the series, cementing their place in the America’s Cup match against Emirates Team New Zealand, which begins next Saturday, October 12.

The final race yesterday (Friday) was a nail-biting contest between the British and Italian crews.

Read more: Isle of Wight sailor one win from 37th Americas Cup final

The south-westerly 'Garbi' breeze provided perfect racing conditions, allowing the AC75 foiling monohulls to show their speed capabilities.

With Island-born Leigh, Britannia's flight controller, on board, the team managed to establish a positional advantage early in the race, forcing Luna Rossa to tack away.

The British crew maintained their lead throughout — fending off their Italian opponents' relentless pursuit.

Downwind, Luna Rossa managed to match Britannia’s speed, but the British crew defended their lead doggedly.

INEOS Britannia in record-breaking form.INEOS Britannia in record-breaking form. (Image: Athena Racing) In the final stages, Luna Rossa gambled on a move out left, but Britannia capitalised on this, gaining a boat-length advantage.

The British yacht crossed the finish line 17 seconds ahead of Luna Rossa, to win the coveted Louis Vuitton Cup.

Read more: Ainslie's Brits hits record America’s Cup speed in Vuitton Cup showdown

After the race, the British sailors celebrated their hard-earned victory, as the trophy was presented to Ainslie, Britannia's team principal.

Ainslie said: "It’s a huge moment for the team and we knew we were always going to be in for a massive battle against Luna Rossa, so hats off to them — they have been incredible competitors.

"To get to this point has taken ten years of hard work, so I'm incredibly proud of the team."

After their brief celebration, the British team has begin preparations to take on the America's Cup holders, Emirates Team New Zealand, in the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup match.