An Emirates And AC Milan Tribute
The 2024 Dubai World Cup, held at the Meydan Racecourse on March 30, was not just a sporting event. It was a platform for a unique collaboration between Emirates and AC Milan, who unveiled a unique art installation.
This bespoke creation, a tribute to the fusion of sports, culture, and art, was the brainchild of UAE-based artist Kareemgraphy.
The innovative art piece, a majestic horse composed of 187 jerseys representing AC Milan’s Home, Away, Third, and goalkeeper kits, was a sight to behold.
It spanned an impressive 8 x 8 metres and adorned the lawn adjacent to the parade ring. Its striking portrayal of sports, culture, and art intertwined was a visual treat for the Dubai World Cup attendees in the Grandstand.
The Dubai World Cup, a vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, is the pinnacle of the UAE horse racing season.
A First
AC Milan’s participation at the Dubai World Cup this year was historic. It marked the club’s first-ever activation at Emirates horse racing events, further solidifying its longstanding partnership with Emirates, which has been ongoing since 2007.
AC Milan CEO Giorgio Furlani, RedBird Capital’s Operating Partner and Senior Advisor Zlatan Ibrahimovic, and AC Milan’s Chief Commercial Officer Maikel Oettle were among the guests at the event.
Expressing admiration for the art installation, AC Milan’s Chief Commercial Officer Maikel Oettle said: “It is inspiring to see AC Milan and Emirates come together for this extraordinary event.
“This art installation celebrates the intersection of sports and diverse cultures, bringing football and horse racing together. It speaks volumes about the Club’s innovative nature and expanding presence beyond pure football.”
Boutros Boutros, Emirates Executive Vice President of Corporate Communications, Marketing, and Brand, shared similar sentiments: “We are delighted to witness the culmination of our 17-year partnership with AC Milan and 28-year partnership with Dubai World Cup depicted in such a unique and artistic manner.
“This represents another remarkable and innovative moment for our customers to enjoy at a world-class event, fostering exceptional brand partnerships and a deep appreciation for sport, culture, and art.”
The event marked a significant milestone in AC Milan’s collaboration with Emirates, further fortifying the bond between the two brands and underscoring the Club’s commitment to engaging with diverse audiences through innovative initiatives.
AC Milan, ranked among the top 10 clubs in the Middle East and Africa region with over 35 million fans globally and 2.5 million in the UAE, strategically inaugurated Casa Milan Dubai, its regional hub, at the end of last year.
This strategic move aligns with the club’s broader global expansion objectives under RedBird Capital and reaffirms AC Milan’s dedication to the growing Middle Eastern market.
Featured image: The 8 x 8-metre art installation adorned the lawn adjacent to the Dubai World Cup 2024 parade ring. Credit: Emirates
