Italian watch manufacturer Panerai has been appointed as the Official Timekeeper of the Prada Cup – Challenger Selection Series for the 36th America’s Cup presented by Prada – which will take place from January 15 to February 24, 2021 in Auckland, New Zealand.
The regatta series will establish which of the three Challenger teams – Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli Team, NYYC American Magic, Ineos Team UK – will compete against the Defender, Emirates New Zealand in the America’s Cup Match in March 2021.
Commenting on the announcement, Panerai Chief Executive Officer, Jean-Marc Pontroué said the company was extremely proud to have been appointed as Official Timekeeper of the Prada Cup.
“The challenge ahead is a great one for us all and Panerai is fully committed to experiencing this new chapter,” he said. “From exchanges on technology and precision to outfitting the exceptional high-tech foiling monohulls, every part of the partnership truly reflects our innovative soul as a pioneering brand.”
Prada’s head of marketing and communication, Lorenzo Bertelli commented:
“The link of Panerai with the sea dates back to the first decade on the last century, when the company supplied advanced and sophisticated engineering elements for the ships of the Italian Navy.
“The first underwater watches date back to the 30’s of the last century and have been central elements of legendary endeavours. Panerai’s research and development and passion for the sea never stopped since.
“It is therefore with great satisfaction that we welcome Panerai as Official Timekeeper of the PRADA Cup and of the 36th America’s Cup presented by Prada preliminary regattas.”
Along with its appointment as Official Timekeeper of the Prada Cup, Panerai will also gain exclusive designations as Official Timekeeper of the Prada America’s Cup World Series Auckland and the Prada Christmas Race.
The brand will be represented on television graphics, the race committee boat and official support boats during all of those events.