Encompassing more than three decades of shared history, Louis Vuitton is the official title partner of the 35th America’s Cup. Between 1983 and 2013, the Louis Vuitton Cup was used as the challenger selection series for the America’s Cup. The significant competition has now become a trophy event in its own right, and is branded as the America’s Cup World Series. The New York Yacht club had, until 1983, successfully defended its trophy for 132 years on the trot since their first victory off the Isle of Wight. Many challengers had stepped up, all had failed. The millionaire Alan Bond, however, was determined to repatriate the America’s Cup to Australia’s Royal Perth Yacht Club. His secret weapon was the winged keel designer Ben Lexcen had attached to the hull of Bond’s 12 metre yacht, Australia II. This controversial innovation took the team to victory, winning the first Louis Vuitton Cup, capturing the consciousness of the public and giving the America’s Cup a wider cultural fame.
Trophy Travel Case
Louis Vuitton has undertaken the creation of a new and evolved bespoke travel case in which the America’s Cup itself will be both transported and presented to the winning team. The trophy travel case features a vivid scarlet V to reflect the new America’s Cup logo and has been handmade by three craftsmen in the historical workshop of the house in Asnières, France. The bespoke case is the result of over 400 hours of craftwork, during seven steps of fabrication and includes a removable briefcase in which the winner’s medals are held, a new arrangement of fittings to hold the trophy securely during its travels, and a microfiber lining to minimise any possibility of wear to the precious cargo it holds.
America’s Cup collection
As Louis Vuitton celebrates their partnership with America’s Cup it seems only fitting that a lifestyle collection for men has also been designed. Offering a range of leisure and elegant casual wear, the range comprises of chunky knitwear, cargo shorts, and polos, together with a range of accessories and leather goods, all in seasonal colours of navy, red and blue. The bold collection brings together the Maison’s love of travel and commitment to excellence, offering products that respond to modern demands and lifestyles.
