Ketchup

Infront Sports & Media has recruited Korea’s Kia Motors as the official automotive partner of the Chinese men’s and women’s national football teams.

Kia Motors Corporation - part of the Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group – is pursuing an active, global policy of investing in football. It is already a top tier FIFA sponsor, with an agreement which includes the 2010 and 2014 FIFA World Cups. Its decision to support Team China in the run up to the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing and South Africa in 2010 is an acknowledgement of the importance of football to Chinese consumers. Football is China’s top sport and the Chinese Football Association (CFA) is determined that the national team acquits itself with distinction on the world stage.

Football in China is undergoing a major period of change and development. Infront has a far-reaching partnership with the CFA which goes beyond the commercial arena. It includes a technical development programme to help build the national team by providing training, coaching and development opportunities of the highest international standard, as well as friendly matches against quality opposition.

International success would transform the focus of football in China. There are more than 250 million football fans in China and they are waiting for the national team to set them alight. The Chinese women’s team has a strong history of success and the fact that the 2007 FIFA Women’s World Cup takes place in China adds to the attractive synergies.

As the official automotive sponsor of Team China, Kia will provide the CFA with the latest vehicles from its model line-up, to help with the efficient management of team activities, in addition to financial support. The vehicles will be supplied from Kia’s domestic plants and the Dongfeng Yueda Kia factory in China. With the sponsorship agreement, Kia also secures strong, visible presence during the Team China Football events through various onsite advertising opportunities.
(from press release)