Since 1851, the America’s Cup has transcended the sport of sailing to become a symbol of the pursuit of excellence. Louis Vuitton, created in 1854, has long shared the values of the America’s Cup. With a common heritage that is rich in passion, innovation, and extraordinary human achievement, Louis Vuitton is a natural choice as principal partner for the 32nd America’s Cup.

For over 20 years, Louis Vuitton, the world’s biggest luxury brand, and part of the LVMH group, has been closely associated with the America’s Cup. Since 1983, Louis Vuitton has given its name to the Challenger Selection Series, known as the Louis Vuitton Cup, and will now play an important role in the 32nd America’s Cup, through the first Louis Vuitton Act in 2004 to the final curtain call after racing in the America’s Cup Match in 2007. Louis Vuitton Watches will be the Official Timing Partner for each of the Louis Vuitton Acts, the Louis Vuitton Cup challenger selection series and the America’s Cup Match.

Louis Vuitton is a full partner from the first races in 2004, through the Challenger Selection Series and the America’s Cup. To get to the America’s Cup Match, and race the Defender, the Challenger must first beat all other challengers and win the Louis Vuitton Cup.

“To be associated with the America’s Cup in Europe, in the magnificent city of Valencia, Spain, is very important for Louis Vuitton,” Yves Carcelle, the President of Louis Vuitton, said when the partnership was announced.

“For more than 20 years, our story with the America’s Cup has been a wonderful partnership,” Mr. Carcelle added. “This continuing agreement will allow Louis Vuitton to further promote the values we have in common with the America’s Cup. Elegance, the spirit of challenge, that subtle balance between tradition and modernity, these are all values that we share.”

AC Management, the organising authority for the 32nd America’s Cup, announced the partnership at the Host City Announcement Ceremony in Geneva on November 26th, 2003.

Since 1983, the America’s Cup has been raced for at four different locations. From Newport, through Fremantle, San Diego and Auckland, and even in Cowes for the America’s Cup Jubilee in 2001, Louis Vuitton has been an integral part of the America’s Cup experience and has touched everyone who has enjoyed the Cup.

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