The longstanding bond between Emirates and the reigning America’s Cup champions, Emirates Team New Zealand, is sailing stronger than ever. Emirates announced the continuation of this partnership into the 37th America’s Cup, along with all associated preliminary regattas.
Sailing Through Time: A 19-year Legacy
This partnership is no brief affair. Spanning 19 years, both Emirates and Team New Zealand have tasted the sweet fruit of their collaboration. They have clinched memorable victories, especially in the 35th and 36th editions of the America’s Cup.
The partnership began in 2004, with Emirates becoming the team’s naming sponsor. Since then, triumphs include lifting the coveted ‘Auld Mug’ in Bermuda in 2017 and the remarkable defense in Auckland in 2021. Their journey has been exhilarating.
Now, with eyes set on Barcelona for the 2024 edition, Emirates reaffirms its commitment as the team’s Lead Sponsor, Official Airline, and Carrier.
Beyond Sponsorship: A Deep-Rooted Commitment
This renewal isn’t just about sponsorship; it’s about the bond that Emirates airlines has fostered with New Zealand. The airline is celebrating 20 years of operations to New Zealand. Emirates’ daily A380 services connect the nations directly from Auckland and Christchurch. Trans-Tasman travel aboard the double-decker aircraft is a unique experience.
Boutros Boutros, Divisional Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications, Marketing & Brand for Emirates, expressed excitement. “Since 2004, we have been on a memorable voyage with Emirates Team New Zealand, and we are delighted to announce our continued support as they defend their reigning championship at the 37th America’s Cup. Emirates Team New Zealand shares DNA with the airline in its ambitious pursuit of innovation and self-improvement. It’s a relationship that’s endured challenges and delivered results. Extending it was an easy decision for us. We also hope that as we move closer to the Americas Cup, the incredible talent, ground-breaking sailing technology, and historic rivalries among the different teams will broaden the sport’s appeal to more audiences worldwide.”
Looking Forward to 2024 Defense in Barcelona
Grant Dalton, the helm at Team New Zealand, reciprocated the sentiment. Looking forward to the challenges of 2024, Dalton said, “We are delighted to have Emirates continue to support Emirates Team New Zealand as naming sponsor. Emirates has been a staunch sponsor of Team New Zealand through our highs and lows since 2004. We greatly value Emirates’ commitment to stand by the team in solidarity going into our 2024 defense in Barcelona. We’re ready to take on the massive task ahead of us next year, with a laser focus to compete at our best.”
What to Expect in the Partnership?
Beyond the naming rights, the visibility of Emirates’ brand will be prominent. It is emblazoned on the mainsails of yachts, crew uniforms, and team bases in Auckland and Barcelona. Furthermore, the 2024 branding gets upgraded with logos gracing the hull of the team’s yachts.
As the excitement builds for the 37th America’s Cup, fans can stay connected with the action. You’ll find America’s Cup content across various Emirates Team New Zealand channels. Scheduled for October 2024 in Barcelona, the races promise exhilarating performances. Emirates Team New Zealand will sail the AC75 class yachts.
Booking is a breeze for fans and sailing enthusiasts who want to join the action in Barcelona. Just sail over to emirates.com or the Emirates App. Have a peek inside the luxurious Emirates A380, serving New Zealand. Check out more from the airline at Emirates A380 Experience.
Emirates and Emirates Team New Zealand are a partnership made for the high seas and the skies above. The 37th America’s Cup awaits, and the duo is more than ready!