The French challenger for the 38th America’s Cup is taking significant strides forward with a fresh identity and new partnerships. La Roche-Posay, part of the L’Oréal Group and a leader in dermatological skincare, has become the title partner, leading the team to be rebranded as La Roche-Posay Racing Team, while also revitalising its initiative.
Key developments include the appointment of Philippe Presti, a two-time America’s Cup winner, as the Sporting Director, and the formation of an elite sailing crew led by Quentin Delapierre. This team structure marks a pivotal moment as they prepare for the first race scheduled for May in Cagliari, leading up to the culmination of the event in Naples in 2027.
As the title partner, La Roche-Posay will utilise competition exposure to inform product innovation aimed at protecting sailors’ skin in challenging sailing conditions, thereby establishing a new dimension in its scientific approach. Alexandra Reni-Catherine, the International General Manager for La Roche-Posay, highlighted the synergy between the team’s values and the brand’s ethos.
“If La Roche-Posay can protect and repair athletes’ skin in extreme conditions, it can protect all skin, everywhere,” she stated.
Stéphan Kandler, founder and co-CEO of K-Challenge, expressed pride in their partnership, noting that La Roche-Posay’s emphasis on scientific measures and performance aligns with K-Challenge’s vision.
The team’s preparations also include an intensive training regimen, focusing on the AC75 racing boats. With over 60 technical team specialists led by Antoine Carraz, they aim to achieve peak performance as they head towards major competitions.
The recruitment of seasoned sailors, supplemented by promising newcomers from the K-Challenge Academy, embodies a blend of experience and fresh talent. Skipper Quentin Delapierre, together with an experienced crew that includes Olympic Champions and past America’s Cup participants, will push for excellence in racing.
The upcoming voyage for La Roche-Posay Racing Team includes a comprehensive training schedule set in Lorient until the end of August, transitioning to competitive environments in Naples thereafter. The first competitive opportunity will be in Cagliari, followed by essential preparatory competitions ahead of the prestigious America’s Cup slated for July 2027.
Overall, the new La Roche-Posay Racing Team stands firmly poised to represent France on the global stage through dedication, innovation, and skill in the realm of elite sailing.
The La Roche-Posay Racing Team’s sailing crew:
Quentin Delapierre (FRA) — Skipper / Driver
Diego Botín (ESP/FRA) — Driver
Enzo Balanger (FRA) — Driver
Jason Saunders (NZL) — Trimmer
Florian Trittel (ESP) — Trimmer
Leigh McMillan (GBR) — Trimmer
Bruno Mourniac (FRA) — Trimmer
Tim Lapauw (FRA) — Trimmer
Amélie Grassi (FRA) — Trimmer
Follow their journey through social media: #KChallengeRacingLab #LaRochePosayRacingTeam #America’sCup
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