Binda Group, the Italian company that owns watch brands Breil Milano and Wyler Geneve, among others, has announced Breil Milano as the sponsor of Team Shosholoza, the South African challenger in the upcoming 33rd edition of the America's Cup regatta.

The sailing competition, whose next edition is set for 2009, is the world's most famous and prestigious in the sport.

As sponsor, official timekeeper and official supplier of Team Shosholoza, Breil Milano will display its logo on the boom, tender and support craft of the team's boat, as well as on its dry-land facilities.

The watch brand will also supply Team Shosholoza with a range of products, including watches, jewels and sunglasses, from the new “Team Shosholoza” collection, which will also be on sale to the public in spring 2008. The line will be inspired by the lively colors and graphics that make the South African team stand out, including a brightly colored wave pattern inspired by traditional Ndbele, Zulu and Xhosa beadwork.

“We are really proud to support Team Shosholoza in this wonderful endeavor,” Binda Group Chief Executive Officer Marcello Binda said in a statement. “This cooperation venture ties up two 'teams' that share the same values: passion, commitment, pride and the audacity to face up the big names in unchartered fields.”