Australian Open has announced a new sponsorship extension with a car manufacturing company, Kia Corporation. With this deal, the company is once again set to serve as the major partner of the competition till 2028.
The collaboration was announced during an official vehicle handover ceremony at Federation Square in Melbourne, which was attended by Kia Global Ambassador and tennis legend Rafael Nadal. Kia presented the tournament authorities with a fleet of 130 vehicles, including the Carnival MPV, Sorento SUV, Sportage SUV, and fully electric EV6 crossover, at the event.
Kia will provide automobiles to the players, officials, and VIPs for safer and smoother road transport as a part of the arrangement. Kia also asserted that the extension of its collaboration will illustrate its perspective and dedication to environmentally friendly mobility.
Commenting on the association, Artur Martins, Head of Kia’s Global Brand and Customer Experience, said, “The Australian Open 2023 marks a special moment in Kia’s long standing relationship with the tournament, as we delightedly announce the renewal of our partnership for another five years until 2028. The event provides the perfect global showcase for Kia’s corporate vision of becoming a sustainable mobility solutions provider.”
Craig Tiley, Australian Open Tournament Director, said, “The unique partnership between Kia and the Australian Open has proven to be one of the most successful in the sporting world and pivotal to the event’s ongoing success. We are honoured that Kia has chosen to extend its role as the Australian Open Major Partner through 2028. It is fascinating to see the latest sustainable technical innovations our friends at Kia bring to the AO every year, and we are excited to see what they have in store for fans at this year’s event.”