Emirates has reaffirmed its partnership with the Emirates Team New Zealand, the reigning champions of the America’s Cup, continuing one of the most iconic collaborations in international sailing history. This renewal comes ahead of the 38th edition of the America’s Cup and all associated preliminary races.
Under the terms of the new agreement, Emirates retains its role as the principal sponsor of the Emirates Team New Zealand, maintaining naming rights and serving as the team’s official airline. The sponsorship includes prominent branding of Emirates on the team’s main sail, chase boats, support vessels, team bases, crew uniforms, and yacht structures. Emirates will also have significant visibility through the team’s digital, social, media channels, live events, and official materials, along with international broadcasts.
Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates, stated, “When I first met Grant in Auckland back in 2004 to sign the naming rights agreement, few could have imagined we would still be partners over 20 years later. Winning the Auld Mug for a third consecutive time sets a precedent in America’s Cup history. Such sustained success is only achieved through relentless pursuit of excellence in every detail, a philosophy that we share at Emirates. As the team prepares for upcoming races and the 38th America’s Cup in Naples, we are proud to continue sailing alongside them.”
Grant Dalton, CEO of Emirates Team New Zealand, remarked, “We are thrilled to extend our partnership with Emirates as the naming sponsor. Emirates has supported the team through both triumphs and challenges since 2004, and this commitment has greatly impacted everyone involved. With Emirates by our side again, we have immense confidence as we prepare to defend our title, focusing entirely on achieving peak performance.”
This partnership dates back to 2004 and has endured for more than 20 years, marked by high-level competition and technological innovation, culminating in Emirates Team New Zealand’s victory at the America’s Cup in Barcelona in 2024, where they lifted the Auld Mug for the third time—a historic milestone for the championship.
As the titleholders at the next America’s Cup scheduled in Naples in 2027, the recent success provides Emirates Team New Zealand with a strong platform to continue showcasing Emirates, enhancing a shared legacy of leadership, technical excellence, and sustainable performance at the pinnacle of global sailing sports. This renewal marks the fifth time Emirates has secured naming rights, reflecting a mutually beneficial partnership focused on a shared pursuit of excellence and innovation.
The 38th America’s Cup will see participating teams racing on AC75 class yachts, while the Louis Vuitton Cup will determine the challenger that will compete against the defending champion, Emirates Team New Zealand. Further details regarding the schedule and host venues will be announced later.
This agreement underscores Emirates’ long-term commitment to New Zealand, having commenced operations to the country in 2003 and currently offering daily A380 flights directly to Auckland, along with services to Christchurch via Sydney, providing a unique opportunity for customers to travel across the Tasman Sea on the impressive double-decker aircraft with four cabin classes.
Besides partnering with Emirates Team New Zealand, Emirates has been pivotal in promoting the growth of sailing worldwide through prominent collaborations, including the Great Britain SailGP team and major international events like the Louis Vuitton Cup in Dubai, helping to introduce the sport to an expanding global audience.