A Partnership Built on Precision, Innovation, and Ocean Passion
In the world of competitive sailing, few partnerships have proven as enduring and successful as the one between OMEGA and Emirates Team New Zealand. As the iconic Swiss watchmaker continues its support for the Kiwi team ahead of the Louis Vuitton 38th America’s Cup, it’s a reminder of what happens when two organizations share an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Three Decades of Sailing Success
What started over 30 years ago has blossomed into one of sailing’s most celebrated collaborations. OMEGA’s association with Emirates Team New Zealand began at the America’s Cup in 1995, perfectly timed with the team’s first victory that year. Since then, the partnership has witnessed five triumphant campaigns, victories in 2000, 2017, 2021, and 2024. Throughout every challenge, every race, and every campaign, OMEGA’s distinctive red branded bows have remained a constant and familiar sight on the Emirates Team New Zealand race boats.
Defending the Trophy in Italy
The stakes have never been higher. Emirates Team New Zealand is now aiming to secure their fourth consecutive America’s Cup victory and their sixth title in history. The Louis Vuitton 38th America’s Cup will be contested in 2027 in Naples—marking the first time this prestigious competition will be sailed in Italy. As the defending champions, Team New Zealand will race against the winner of the Louis Vuitton Cup in a “first to 7 wins” format known as The Match. It’s the ultimate test of sailing prowess, where milliseconds matter and precision is everything.
More Than Just a Team Sponsor
OMEGA’s commitment extends far beyond simply backing the main team. The organization serves as the Official Timekeeper of the Louis Vuitton 38th America’s Cup, a role that underscores its technical expertise and credibility in the sport. This responsibility covers the broader America’s Cup programme, including the return of the Women’s America’s Cup and the Youth America’s Cup. The brand also supports individual sailing ambassadors, including Blair Tuke of Emirates Team New Zealand, who played a crucial role in the back-to-back victories of 2017, 2021, and 2024.
The Perfect Match of Values
“Emirates Team New Zealand continue to inspire us with the perseverance and technical excellence they bring to sailing,” says OMEGA President and CEO Raynald Aeschlimann. “It’s an honour to support them once again as they pursue the sport’s greatest trophy. Our journey together has remained strong throughout time—and highlights two partners committed to success.” Emirates Team New Zealand CEO Grant Dalton echoes this sentiment: “We are very proud to continue to have OMEGA’s iconic brand associated with the team once again for our Defence of the 38th America’s Cup in Naples in 2027. For over 30 years now, OMEGA has always been a precision partner that strengthens our team and has played a significant part in our success of all five of our America’s Cup victories.”
The Action Begins
The 2026 racing season kicked off with a Preliminary Regatta series commencing on May 21st in Cagliari, Sardinia. Teams are competing in the cutting-edge AC40 foiling monohull boats, sleek, technologically advanced vessels capable of reaching speeds up to 50 knots.
Looking Ahead to Naples 2027
As the America’s Cup community prepares for its Italian debut, the partnership between OMEGA and Emirates Team New Zealand stands as a showcase to what dedication, innovation, and shared values can achieve. With precision timekeeping, technical excellence, and a passion for the ocean, this is a partnership built to win.
The journey to Naples has already begun, and all eyes will be on the Kiwis as they seek to make history once again.
