L'Oréal Groupe sets sail with sponsorship of K-Challenge, including France SailGP Team
by L'Oréal 17 Mar 01:09 AEDT
L'Oréal Groupe has signed an agreement to become an official sponsor of K-Challenge, a sport-tech company, in support of the French sailing team competing in the 'most exciting racing on water' - the SailGP championship.
The three-year partnership builds on the Groupe's earlier sponsorship of the French challenger in the 37th America's Cup, including the team who competed in the first-ever Women's America's Cup. SailGP presents a fresh opportunity to support many of the same women, men and youth sailors and engineers, as well as new recruits, who will compete for a chance to win the Grand Final of the 2025 SailGP season and its 2 million dollars of prize money. The partnership with K-Challenge will also support the youth and women's teams in racing events beyond SailGP, expanding the Groupe's commitment.
The 13-race SailGP Championship kicked off in Dubai on 23-24 November 2024 and culminates in Abu Dhabi on 29-30 November 2025. Each national team sails identical, F50 catamarans, capable of speeds of up to 60mph, in a close-toshore, high-speed, high tech sailing competition. "We are excited to partner with K-Challenge and continue our enthusiastic support of the French sailing team in their pursuit of international sporting excellence," said Nicolas Hieronimus, Chief Executive Officer, L'Oréal Groupe. "L'Oréal has always supported the ambitions of women and youth all over the world: with the 2024 America's Cup and now, SailGP, we are championing them in the advanced sporting arena, while promoting our shared values of innovation and sustainability."
"This level of sailing is a demanding feat, requiring intensive training, flawlessly orchestrated teamwork, the most advanced innovation, and a commitment to sustainability," said Christophe Babule, Chief Financial Officer, L'Oréal Groupe. "We are delighted to accompany the French team in this exciting competition, as they continue to evolve into world-class sportswomen and men."
Stephan Kandler, co-CEO, K-Challenge: "The continued and renewed support of L'Oréal Groupe is a great source of pride for K-Challenge. It enables us to strengthen our team on the SailGP championship and to dedicate resources to training and excellence for young people and women in our sport. Our ambition is to bring together the greatest brands and personalities, symbols of French excellence, to win the greatest sailing trophies. Welcome to one of France's most iconic companies!"