SPORT TAG Heuer and FlyingNikka set sail for new horizons

It all started with the first Swiss sailing race in 1888. Since then, TAG Heuer has been the official timekeeper for some of the most prestigious sailing events in the world. Like the America’s Cup, the oldest trophy in international sport. So it’s in our DNA to explore uncharted waters and discover new horizons. That’s why we’ve partnered with FlyingNikka, the first-ever full foiling sailing yacht in the Mini Maxi category. FlyingNikka is a technological marvel designed to break records and sail against convention. An avant-garde watchmaker with racing in its blood working together with a cutting-edge sailing yacht built to make waves. There’s no better fit. Here’s everything you need to know about FlyingNikka, its team, and our collaboration.

FlyingNikka is one of the most radical high-performance yachts out there today. A pure speed machine, this flying boat is 19 meters long and equipped with state-of-the-art foils that enable full foil sailing. A true breakthrough, FlyingNikka took to the water in Valencia on 12 May 2022. It’s been evolved to suit the long AC 75 sailings that characterized recent editions of the America’s Cup. With a hull made from advanced carbon fiber composites, a towering wing sail, and advanced hydrofoils, FlyingNikka is made to fly over the water, achieving speeds of up to 40 knots.

The brainchild of owner Roberto Lacorte and a team co-ordinated by maverick designer Mark Mills, FlyingNikka is all set to rule the waves in 2023. The team is ready to race at several prestigious events this year, including the Regatta di Primavera in Portofino, the 151 miles race in Livorno, the Rolex Giraglia race from St. Tropez to Genoa, and the Maxi Rolex Race in Porto Cervo.  As team leader and helmsman, Lacorte has assembled a group of sailing specialists to propel FlyingNikka towards new records. The team is made up of decorated competition winners and Olympic champions like Lorenzo Bressani. 

After decades of success in motorsport, it only makes sense for TAG Heuer to reconnect with its sailing roots. Much like TAG Heuer, FlyingNikka pushes technological boundaries in its relentless pursuit of the avant-garde. And that’s why this partnership has the wind in its sails. Bon voyage!

See if you can spot the FlyingNikka team wearing our TAG Heuer Aquaracer Solargraph watches while sailing. If you’d like to know more about the timepiece, visit here.