The America's Cup, the oldest international sporting trophy dating back to 1851, is renowned as the pinnacle of competitive sailing. Often referred to as the "Formula 1 of the sea" it features cutting-edge yacht racing, where elite teams compete in a thrilling Challenger vs. Defender format. The event showcases state-of-the-art sailing technology, with high-performance AC75 foiling boats that practically fly above the water at breathtaking speeds, blending athletic skill and engineering prowess.
The 2024 edition, held for the first time in Barcelona, brings this legendary race to the vibrant Mediterranean waters. With the city’s iconic skyline as a backdrop, the race offers a stunning visual spectacle. Beyond the sheer excitement of world-class competition, this year’s event emphasizes sustainability and eco-friendly innovations, reflecting a future-focused approach to both technology and the environment. The combination of high-speed action, advanced design, and a picturesque location makes the 2024 America's Cup an unmissable event in the world of sport.
In addition to the thrilling competition and cutting-edge technology on display at the 2024 America’s Cup, the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli sailing team is pushing boundaries with an innovative collaboration. Partnering with The Woolmark Company, the team has developed high-performance Merino wool garments to optimize their training and racing apparel. From cycling suits to windproof jackets, the custom-made kit uses Merino wool’s natural temperature regulation, moisture management, and breathability to enhance the sailors' performance across varied conditions. This unique partnership marks the return of Woolmark as the official technical partner for Luna Rossa, building on their success from previous races.
What sets this collaboration apart is its environmental focus. Unlike synthetic fibers, Merino wool does not contribute to microplastic pollution, making it a sustainable choice in addition to its superior technical benefits. With garments designed for everything from gym-based training to the intense demands of sailing, Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli showcases how natural materials like wool can revolutionize performance sportswear while prioritizing the health of the oceans they sail on.
We had an exclusive opportunity to see the race in person and would love to share our highlights from this unique experience below.
We had an idea of exploring this field of functional apparel for a long time, so having this competition be one of the first steps is truly an honour. Stay tuned for more and see our other sports event photo-reports from earlier this year via the links below.
Made by TECHUNTER Magazine. Production: TECHUNTER Media. Words, photography, layout: Alexander Zabelin [THM]. Special thanks to the Woolmark company for the support.