OMEGA to serve as Official Timekeeper of the 38th America's Cup
by America's Cup Media 21 Apr 14:20 BST
Emirates Team New Zealand AC75 during the 37th America's Cup © Ian Roman / America's Cup
OMEGA is set to continue its legacy in sailing when the Louis Vuitton 38th America's Cup is contested next year in Naples. This is the first time that the competition will be sailed in Italy. Raced alongside an iconic coastline, under the shadow of Mt. Vesuvius, it promises to be another historic duel on the ocean.
The America's Cup is a key part of OMEGA's reputation as a global leader in sports timekeeping. The partnership stretches back to 1995, when the Swiss watchmaker began its long-standing partnership with Emirates Team New Zealand- then under the leadership of the celebrated sailor, Sir Peter Blake. Each time the New Zealand crew has won the "Auld Mug", OMEGA has been positioned as Official Timekeeper at the following edition. So far, that has included the America's Cup events in 2000, 2003, 2021, 2024 - and now 2027.
Beginning on July 10th, 2027, The Louis Vuitton 38th America's Cup will be a 'best of 13' format between just two teams. Known as the 'Match,' the first team to reach seven victories will lift the America's Cup - the oldest trophy in international sport. As the winner in 2024, Emirates Team New Zealand are currently the Defender, aiming to win for the fourth time in a row. They will go up against the winner of the Louis Vuitton Cup (Challenger Selection Series), which will be competed during the spring of 2027.
OMEGA President and CEO, Raynald Aeschlimann, said: "OMEGA has now been associated with the America's Cup for over 30 years. This trophy is a mark of prestige, ocean heritage, innovation, and sailing precision, which very much resonates with OMEGA's own historic values. We're delighted and honoured to be getting back on the water with Emirates Team New Zealand, while also bringing our timekeeping distinction to the entire competition."
Emirates Team New Zealand CEO Grant Dalton further added: "The famous red OMEGA branded bows have been a constant on the Emirates Team New Zealand race boats for many campaigns now. The first part of the boat to cross the finish line in some of our most iconic races and victories. It is an historic association, and the team is proud of the strength of the long term partnership at the pinnacle of our sport."
Alongside these main competitions, the broader America's Cup programme will continue to showcase the sport's evolving future. As part of the Official Timekeeper role, OMEGA will also be positioned for the return of the Women's America's Cup, as well as the Youth America's Cup, both of which provide the ideal platform for elite and emerging crews to compete at the highest level.