The Louis Vuitton Trophy Trunk. Courtesy of Louis Vuitton.

IN A MOVE that would make even the most seasoned pit crew pause, Louis Vuitton has just turbocharged its longstanding tradition of crafting bespoke trunks for the world’s most coveted sporting trophies. The latest jewel in its crown? A partnership with Formula 1 that’s set to redefine luxury in the fast lane.

As Formula 1 celebrated its diamond jubilee at London’s O2 arena, the FIA Formula One World Championship™ trophy made its grand entrance, nestled in a Louis Vuitton Trophy Trunk that’s more work of art than mere container. Handcrafted in the brand’s storied Asnières workshop – where Louis Vuitton has been turning out masterpieces since 1859 – this trunk is a testament to the maison’s unparalleled savoir-faire.

From horse-drawn carriages to high-speed circuits

Louis Vuitton’s journey began in 1837 when a 16-year-old Louis arrived in Paris, apprenticing under trunk maker Monsieur Maréchal. In those days, horse-drawn carriages, boats, and trains were the primary modes of transport, and luggage faced rough handling. Vuitton honed his craft, creating durable trunks to protect the possessions of travellers.

In a stroke of genius that would change travel forever, Vuitton introduced the revolutionary flat-topped trunk in 1858. This design, a departure from the traditional domed lids, allowed for easy stacking and better suited the emerging era of train travel. The lightweight, waterproof Trianon grey canvas he developed replaced heavy, crack-prone leather, setting a new standard in luggage design.

Racing towards innovation

Picture this: front panels hand-painted with a bold “V” for Victory (and Vuitton, naturally), rendered in a black and white damier that echoes the iconic checkered flag. It’s a visual symphony that marries the heritage of haute couture with the adrenaline of motorsport.

But Louis Vuitton isn’t just parking at the podium. They’re taking pole position in a 10-year partnership as an Official Partner of Formula 1, kicking off with the renamed Formula 1® Louis Vuitton Australian Grand Prix 2025 in Melbourne1. For the first time in the brand’s illustrious sporting history, Louis Vuitton’s signature style will be prominently displayed trackside, ensuring that victory not only travels in Vuitton but is surrounded by it.

This collaboration is more than just logos and leather—it’s a shared pursuit of excellence, a fusion of fashion, culture, and raw speed. As Pietro Beccari, Louis Vuitton’s Chairman and CEO, puts it: “The synergy of our two worlds is echoed in the savoir-faire of our ateliers and garages, artisans, and engineers.”

From the workshop to the winner’s circle, Louis Vuitton continues to prove that in the race for prestige, they’re always laps ahead. After all, when it comes to celebrating the pinnacle of human achievement, whether it’s on the track or in the atelier, there’s only one way to travel: in Louis Vuitton.