JAPANESE ENGINE manufacturer Yanmar has signed as Official Technical Partner of the 33rd America's Cup Champions, Oracle Team USA.
Under the deal, Yanmar will provide engines and drive systems for Oracle Team USA’s “chase boats” during the team’s bid to defend the 34th America’s Cup in San Francisco this September.
As one of the race team's partners, the Yanmar logo will be displayed on the rudders and wheel of the AC72 race boat as well as on the rudder and tiller of the AC45 America's Cup World Series boats.
In addition, crew members will call the chase boats by their new names: "Chase Boat YANMAR1" and "Chase Boat YANMAR2".
According to a press release issued by the company, Yanmar "is looking to increase its brand exposure through association with the world's top racing team,
Oracle Team USA, towards further building a premium brand."
In September 2012, Yanmar also agreed a three-year global partnership deal with English Premier League giants, Manchester United
Yanmar has a more than 60 per cent share in the world’s sail-boat engine market and produces more than half of all small-size diesel engines for construction machinery.
By Matthew Glendinning
Follow Matthew on Twitter: @mattglen