With the second event of season 4 of SailGP soon to hit the waters of Los Angeles, Zhik is delighted to announce its partnership as official on water Technical Apparel Supplier of France SailGP Team.
Zhik has partnered and worked closely with many world class French Olympic and ocean racing athletes throughout the years, so is a perfect time to make the connection with the France SailGP team as they compete against the worlds best. Solidifying Zhik’s presence in the French sailing community, a strong partnership with the ocean racing powerhouse team Paprec Arkea was launched last year with great success. Led by well-known French yachtsman, Yoann Richomme, the team claimed back-to-back top honours in the competitive Route du Rhum Class 40 division and now is in full stride towards the start of the Vendee Globe race in 2024.
“I feel this is a great partnership for two well established entities in the sailing world, combining the French nations sailing history with Zhik’s passion and dedication to the sport,” comments Mat Belcher, Zhik CEO and triple Olympic medallist. “It is great to not only support some of the major French sailors and teams but also build Zhik’s exposure and work with our dedicated and tight knit group of dealers across France. We have had a strong and long-lasting relationship with Plastimo and many other stores across France which we are constantly looking to expand and strengthen where possible.”
2024 will be a big year for Zhik and the French sailing community as it combines both the Olympic Games in Paris and the start of the highly anticipated Vendee Globe Race. With both events drawing a multitude of athletes and spectators, Zhik will be looking to make its presence known.
Quentin Delapierre, France SailGP Driver explains, “As a team that is looking to take on the world’s best sailors, we need to make sure that we partner with the best suppliers. For this reason, we are very excited to work with Zhik and to have quality sailing gear to wear while we are out racing. Having good equipment means that the team can focus on sailing and giving our all to get the best results on the water.”
Johnny Rodgers, Zhik Global Sponsorship Manager adds, “We see some great synergies between Zhik and the French sailing community. There is a rich history of highly accomplished and bold sailors, which Zhik as a brand is excited to support as they push the whole industry forward. We can’t wait to see what the French SailGP Team, along with the other Zhik partnered teams, are able to accomplish this season.”
