America’s Cup 2024 - Grapefruit Graphics

The America’s Cup is the oldest sporting competition in the world and remains the pinnacle of sailing.

In the artwork phase, we adapted the supplied designs to fit the our AC40 boats templates that take into account the complexities of working on a 3D canvas. This stage was critical because any issues with the design would cascade into production and installation, creating delays. Our extensive experience with marine branding meant we knew what would work and what wouldn’t on these boats. Having already branded numerous AC40 yachts for senior teams, we had the knowledge to anticipate potential problems and make the necessary adjustments to ensure the wraps would perform under extreme conditions. Producing wraps for AC40 boats requires specialised materials. Not all vinyl is created equal - the harsh marine environment, and the extreme speeds these boats reach demand a higher standard than wraps typically used on vehicles or signage. We ensured that the vinyl, laminates, and colour profiles were up to the task, rigorously testing each to withstand the intense conditions. By producing these wraps with precision, we guaranteed not only the branding’s durability but also its visual impact on the water. Installation was the final and most challenging phase, this is where our expertise in marine wraps comes out to shine. Our team of experienced installers had previously worked on AC40 yachts, giving us a deep understanding of the boats’ unique shapes and challenges. Given the tight schedules, every step had to be carefully coordinated, especially as inclement weather in Barcelona restricted our working time. Despite these obstacles, we deployed additional team members, working long hours to complete the job on time. This flexibility ensured that the sponsors’ branding was in place for the critical event dates.

For sailors, competing in the America’s Cup is the highlight of their careers.

In 2024, we had the privilege of working with three senior teams: INEOS Britannia, American Magic, and Alinghi Red Bull Racing, delivering vinyl wraps for their boats. For the first time in America’s Cup history, the 2024 event included Youth, Women’s, and E-Series categories. This new development created a clear progression path for young and female sailors, offering them opportunities to transition into senior teams.

The designs for these events were primarily sponsor-driven. UniCredit and Puig supplied bold, minimalist artwork that emphasised their logos, transforming the boats into moving billboards for their brands. Our task was to adapt these 2D designs to the curved, dynamic surfaces of the AC40 boats, ensuring high visibility and brand consistency throughout the event. We played a critical role in determining the best methods for manufacturing and applying the designs, ensuring that they would hold up during intense competition.

In the artwork phase, we adapted the supplied designs to fit the our AC40 boats templates that take into account the complexities of working on a 3D canvas. This stage was critical because any issues with the design would cascade into production and installation, creating delays. Our extensive experience with marine branding meant we knew what would work and what wouldn’t on these boats. Having already branded numerous AC40 yachts for senior teams, we had the knowledge to anticipate potential problems and make the necessary adjustments to ensure the wraps would perform under extreme conditions.

Producing wraps for AC40 boats requires specialised materials. Not all vinyl is created equal – the harsh marine environment, and the extreme speeds these boats reach demand a higher standard than wraps typically used on vehicles or signage. We ensured that the vinyl, laminates, and colour profiles were up to the task, rigorously testing each to withstand the intense conditions. By producing these wraps with precision, we guaranteed not only the branding’s durability but also its visual impact on the water.

Installation was the final and most challenging phase, this is where our expertise in marine wraps comes out to shine. Our team of experienced installers had previously worked on AC40 yachts, giving us a deep understanding of the boats’ unique shapes and challenges. Given the tight schedules, every step had to be carefully coordinated, especially as inclement weather in Barcelona restricted our working time. Despite these obstacles, we deployed additional team members, working long hours to complete the job on time. This flexibility ensured that the sponsors’ branding was in place for the critical event dates.

From design knowledge to production and application, Grapefruit Graphics’ service and commitment to our project have been second to none. Working to tight time frames, juggling multiple inputs and adapting as the project evolved, it has been a pleasure to work with their team and they would be my first choice for any future graphics projects.

Abby Ehler

Our team in Barcelona was divided into two key groups: one focused on hull branding, and the other on sail branding. With four installers working on the hulls and additional staff handling the sails, we managed to rebrand seven boats and their sails for both UniCredit and Puig in just a few days. Each boat required branding for both the hull and sails, with complex designs that needed to be executed flawlessly and on time.

The AC40 yachts posed specific challenges due to their high speed and complex shape. These boats are built for performance, and the wraps needed to adhere perfectly to their unique surfaces. Through testing, we identified high-tack cast vinyl as the most suitable material, ensuring it could withstand the extreme conditions. We also advised clients to limit branding to the area above the boat’s hard chine, a feature that helped prevent damage and maintain the wrap’s appearance throughout the event.

The weather in Barcelona presented an additional challenge, with heavy rains limiting our work time. Since the boats couldn’t be moved indoors, we were entirely dependent on the weather. Despite this, we were able to adjust our team structure, bringing in more staff to ensure that the wraps were completed on time. This level of flexibility was crucial in meeting the client’s deadlines, as event dates are immovable.

Our work was completed on time, and the wraps performed excellently throughout the event. Even under the most intense conditions – racing every day, being hauled in and out of the docks – none of the wraps failed. The feedback from both UniCredit and Puig was overwhelmingly positive, the branding met their expectations and contributed to the success of the event. Our meticulous planning, from artwork to installation, ensured the boats were ready to race without delays.

The 2024 Youth and Women’s America’s Cup represent the beginning of a new era in sailing. For us, being part of this inaugural moment was a tremendous opportunity to showcase our expertise in marine branding. With a city buzzing from the energy of both the senior and junior competitions, our team successfully delivered high-quality wraps that integrated seamlessly into the America’s Cup environment, proving once again why we are trusted leaders in marine vinyl wrapping.

Sustainability is at the heart of our approach to large-scale events, guiding our choices in materials and delivery methods. We partnered with Metamark to develop a bespoke product that not only met the highest standards of performance and reliability but also aligned with sustainable practices through Metastream recycling program. This collaboration ensured that all waste materials generated during production were efficiently recycled, minimising our environmental impact. Throughout the event, three major branding changeovers were seamlessly executed, showcasing our commitment to sustainability without compromising on quality or event aesthetics.