Cowes Week announces Horner-linked North Sails as title sponsor
The Cowes Week sailing regatta has this morning announced the Christian Horner-linked North Sails as title partner.
The Isle of Wight racing week, taking place in August, will now be sponsored by the sailmaker backed by Oakley Capital, which this week appointed former Red Bull Racing team principal as an advisor.
Cowes Week is the oldest annual sailing regatta with thousands of competitors taking part. This year’s regatta will be the 200th with the North Sails sponsorship part of a three-year deal.
Cowes chairman Robert Trimble said: “Welcoming North Sails as title sponsor for Cowes Week’s 200th anniversary marks an important moment for the event; the coming together of two organisations with such natural alignment allows us to deliver a more ambitious and enjoyable regatta.
“Launching the three-year partnership in our Bicentenary year provides the opportunity not only to celebrate this milestone, but to shape the next chapter of the Regatta.”
Cowes Week sponsorship deal
Sailing has long been a popular sport in the UK but recent investments made by global celebrities into SailGP, and Britain’s recent appearance in the final of the America’s Cup, has seen interest rise.
The current British America’s Cup boat – GB1 – has seen owner Sir Ben Ainslie part with former funder Sir Jim Ratcliffe. Oakley Capital also has involvement with the GB1 boat.
The UK leg of SailGP will take place later this year in Portsmouth with a significant fan and hospitality offering.
GB1 chief Ian Walker said: “We’re delighted to see North Sails become the title partner of Cowes Week.
“North Sails is such a natural partner for an event that brings together elite racing and the wider sailing community.
“On behalf of everyone at GB1, I’d like to congratulate the North Sails team and wish them every success as they journey with Cowes Week into an exciting new chapter.”