Cisco Leverages AI Technology to Support and Safeguard Luna Rosa’s America’s Cup Campaign
SAN JOSE, Calif., August 29, 2025 — Cisco (NASDAQ: CSCO), the global leader in networking and security solutions, has announced a strategic partnership with Luna Rosa, Italy’s premier sailing team, as its Official Secure AI Infrastructure Partner. This collaboration positions Cisco to provide Luna Rossa with its advanced AI-powered security and unified technology platforms as the team prepares to compete in the 38th edition of the America’s Cup in Naples, Italy, in 2027.
Through this partnership, Luna Rossa will benefit from Cisco’s comprehensive security portfolio, designed to safeguard mission-critical operations and enable real-time performance insights. Leveraging AI-driven tools, the team can make data-informed tactical decisions while defending sensitive digital assets from emerging cyber threats.
“Technology is now as critical to success in the America’s Cup as skill on the water,” said Rob McQueen, Vice President of Global Sponsorships at Cisco. “By providing our AI-powered security platform to Luna Rosa, we ensure every design innovation, tactical choice, and byte of race data is fully protected. This allows the team to focus entirely on achieving peak performance.”
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A Formidable Challenger
Luna Rossa boasts an experienced roster of sailors, combining Olympic-level talent with previous America’s Cup veterans. Complemented by a world-class team of engineers and designers, Luna Rossa has consistently demonstrated its ability to innovate both on and off the water. The team has participated in six editions of the America’s Cup, winning the Louis Vuitton Cup in 2000 and the PRADA Cup in 2021. Luna Rossa also reached the finals of the Challenger Selection Series in 2007, 2013, and 2024, underscoring its status as a top contender in global sailing.
“Welcoming Cisco as our technology partner represents a major step forward for our team,” said Gilberto Nobili, Technology & Operations Director at Luna Rossa. “The America’s Cup is a race of innovation, precision, and endurance. With Cisco’s AI-driven security protecting our operations, we can dedicate our full attention to delivering unmatched performance on the water.”
AI-Powered Security for High-Stakes Competition
In modern competitive sailing, real-time data and digital insights are crucial for success. Luna Rossa relies on advanced analytics for everything from sail design and hull performance to wind and weather monitoring. Cisco’s AI-enabled security ensures that all these systems remain protected from cyber threats, allowing the team to operate with confidence.
Cisco’s platform provides proactive monitoring, threat detection, and automated defenses that minimize downtime and prevent disruptions. By integrating AI-driven analytics with unified security measures, Luna Rossa can focus on optimizing performance while maintaining the integrity of its operational data.
Expanding Cisco’s Presence in Global Sports
This sponsorship further strengthens Cisco’s growing portfolio of high-profile sports partnerships. The company serves as the Official Enterprise Networking Partner and Official Cybersecurity Partner of the NFL, ensuring league-wide connectivity and digital resilience. Cisco also acts as the Official Network Equipment Partner for the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and as the Official Technology and Security Partner for the McLaren Formula 1 Team, supporting cutting-edge data systems for one of motorsport’s leading teams.
Beyond partnerships with teams and leagues, Cisco powers some of the world’s most technologically advanced sports venues, including Madison Square Garden in New York, Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid, and Melbourne Cricket Ground in Australia. These facilities leverage Cisco’s networking and AI-driven security solutions to enhance fan experience, operational efficiency, and event safety.
Driving Innovation with AI
Cisco has spent more than four decades connecting and protecting the world, and its AI-powered solutions are now transforming industries and organizations globally. By embedding AI into its security and networking platforms, Cisco helps teams like Luna Rossa anticipate challenges, respond to threats in real time, and maximize operational efficiency.
For Luna Rossa, the partnership provides not only advanced cybersecurity but also an integrated technology platform that streamlines communication, collaboration, and decision-making. AI-powered analytics allow the team to predict potential risks, optimize equipment performance, and gain actionable insights during training and competition.
“We are committed to empowering organizations with AI-driven technologies that enhance performance and resilience,” said Rob McQueen. “Our collaboration with Luna Rossa demonstrates how innovation and security go hand in hand, even in high-stakes sports like the America’s Cup.”
About Cisco
Cisco (NASDAQ: CSCO) is a worldwide technology leader revolutionizing how organizations connect, communicate, and protect their digital assets. For over 40 years, Cisco has enabled secure connections across businesses, governments, and communities. With a focus on AI-driven solutions, Cisco helps customers unlock innovation, improve productivity, and strengthen digital resilience. Guided by purpose, Cisco remains committed to creating a more connected, inclusive, and secure future for all.
About Luna Rosa
Founded in 1997 by Patrizio Bertelli, Luna Rossa was created to compete in the 30th America’s Cup in 2000. Since then, the team has participated in six editions of the prestigious event, achieving notable successes, including winning the Louis Vuitton Cup in 2000 and the PRADA Cup in 2021. Luna Rossa has also reached the finals of the Challenger Selection Series in 2007, 2013, and 2024. Known for combining world-class sailors, advanced engineering, and innovative design, Luna Rossa continues to be a dominant force in international sailing.
The Future of Sailing Meets Technology
The collaboration between Cisco and Luna Rossa highlights the growing intersection of sports and technology. With AI-driven security and networking solutions, Luna Rossa is equipped to handle complex operational challenges and protect critical digital infrastructure. As the 38th America’s Cup approaches in Naples, the team can rely on Cisco to maintain a competitive edge both on and off the water.
This partnership is also a testament to the evolving role of technology in sports. Teams that integrate AI, cybersecurity, and advanced analytics are not only enhancing performance but also safeguarding the data that drives innovation. For Luna Rossa, Cisco’s support ensures the team remains agile, informed, and secure, delivering a winning combination of athletic skill and technological advantage.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the partnership between Cisco and Luna Rosa about?
Cisco has become Luna Rossa’s Official Secure AI Infrastructure Partner, providing AI-driven security and unified technology solutions to protect the team’s digital operations and support real-time performance decisions for the 38th America’s Cup in 2027.
How will Cisco’s technology benefit Luna Rosa?
Cisco’s AI-powered security platform safeguards sensitive data, ensures operational continuity, and enables the team to make informed decisions during training and races. It protects design insights, tactical plans, and performance analytics from cyber threats.
Why is AI important in competitive sailing?
AI allows teams to process complex data in real time, predict potential risks, optimize equipment performance, and enhance decision-making. In high-stakes competitions like the America’s Cup, AI ensures teams gain a technological edge over rivals.
Who are the key figures behind this partnership?
Rob McQueen, Cisco’s Vice President of Global Sponsorships, highlighted the importance of AI-powered security, while Gilberto Nobili, Luna Rossa’s Technology & Operations Director, emphasized how the technology allows the team to focus on peak performance.
What experience does Luna Rosa bring to the America’s Cup?
Founded in 1997, Luna Rossa has competed in six America’s Cup editions, winning the Louis Vuitton Cup in 2000 and the PRADA Cup in 2021. The team also reached the finals of the Challenger Selection Series in 2007, 2013, and 2024.
How does this sponsorship fit into Cisco’s broader sports strategy?
Cisco partners with multiple top-tier sports organizations, including the NFL, McLaren Formula 1 Team, and the LA28 Olympic Games. The company also powers leading stadiums like Madison Square Garden and Bernabéu Stadium, showcasing its expertise in AI, networking, and cybersecurity.
When and where will Luna Rosa compete next?
Luna Rosa will compete in the 38th America’s Cup, scheduled to take place in Naples, Italy, in 2027.
Conclusion
Cisco’s partnership with Luna Rossa exemplifies the critical role of AI and cybersecurity in modern competitive sports. By providing advanced AI-driven security and unified technology platforms, Cisco ensures that Luna Rossa can focus on peak performance, protect sensitive data, and make real-time tactical decisions with confidence. As the 38th America’s Cup approaches in 2027, this collaboration highlights how innovation, technology, and athletic excellence come together to drive success on a global stage.
