When ACEA persuaded Louis Vuitton to return as a sponsor they attached the luxury brand's name to all phases of the competition:
- Louis Vuitton America's Cup World Series
- Louis Vuitton America's Cup Qualifiers
- Louis Vuitton America's Cup Challenger Playoffs
- America's Cup Match Presented by Louis Vuitton
Louis Vuitton designed their own logo for the event, which ACEA was not allowed to use on clothing or merchandise, or in association with any other sponsor.
America's Cup logo conflict - clothing / backdrop
Brand Integrity
Most marketing experts insist on protecting how a logo can be used. Brand identity guidelines specify "clearspace" around a logo to protect its integrity and impact. Hybrid logos with other companies are strictly forbidden, in order to strengthen the value of a brand's identity.
Clearspace spec for the America's Cup logo
It appears the "logo police" at ACEA had a pretty loose idea of brand integrity.
Why anyone thought Snapchat was a good way to build the audience is a separate topic.
America's Cup Jam logo
Vineyard Vines America's Cup logo
Snapchat America's Cup logo
Presenting Sponsor or Title Sponsor
Who gets top billing - the event or the sponsor?
Louis Vuitton America's Cup Qualifier Logo
Louis Vuitton America's Cup Match logo
Vuitton's LV symbol was used on the wingsails instead of the traditional America's Cup symbol. Compare the AC72 yachts in San Francisco in 2013 with the America's Cup Class yachts in 2017.
America's Cup 2013 San Francisco - Photo: Abner Kingman
Louis Vuitton America's Cup Yachts - Image: ACTV