FC BARCELONA HONOURS THE LOUIS VUITTON 37TH ...

Without doubt one of the most famous and prestigious football clubs in the world, FC Barcelona, honoured and recognised the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup ahead of the club’s important La Liga match against Getafe CF by inviting two of the world’s sailing superstars to perform the ceremonial kick-off.

Peter Burling, skipper of the Defender of the 37th America’s Cup, Emirates Team New Zealand, Olympic gold and silver medallist and two-time Cup winner, was joined by Silvia Mas, Olympian and 470 World Champion representing Sail Team BCN who were invited to perform the ceremonial kick-off and took to the hallowed and revered turf of FC Barcelona beneath the floodlights, ahead of the game.

The ceremonial kick off is a special occasion and honour, especially as FC Barcelona this season are celebrating the 125th anniversary of the club’s foundation. In welcoming two of the stars of the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup, the world-renowned club are both honouring the 173-year-old America’s Cup, the longest continually contested sporting competition in the world, and its presence this year in the city of Barcelona.

Under the floodlights of a packed Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, the home of FC Barcelona, Burling and Mas were loudly cheered by the enthusiastic and passionate home supporters with Burling blown away by the atmosphere, saying:

“That was an epic opportunity to experience being part of one of the most iconic sporting clubs in the world and to bring the America’s Cup into the Olímpic Stadium full of passionate Barça fans.”

Taking to the pitch both Burling and Mas wore a ‘blaugrana jersey’ emblazoned with “37th America's Cup” on the back, symbolising the connection between these two iconic names in the world of sport that share the common values of excellence and the drive to inspire future generations.

(Magnus Wheatley)