July 20 – Manchester United, in China for pre-season matches against Borussia Dortmund and Manchester City as part of the International Champions Cup, have taken the opportunity to reinforce both their commitment to China and to new sponsor partner Gulf Oil, at an event in Shanghai.
The event celebrated a ‘Wall of history’ for both Gulf Oil and Man Utd in China. First team players joined Man Utd ambassador Denis Irwin to celebrate their relationship with China.
China is seen as a key market for both the club and the oil company. Gulf Oil became the club’s Official Global Lubricant Oil and Fuel Retail Partner in March in what is a three-year deal.
At the time the Hinduja-Group owned company said it was attracted to the 325 million-strong base of followers in Asia, which it sees as key to expanding its businesses in India, China, the Middle East and Indonesia.
Gulf Oil International’s Vice President Frank Rutten said: “Our partnership with Manchester United has brought together two brands with incredible heritage and a great future together – and I see many parallels between us.
“And just as United is gearing up for the future – having signed a couple of stellar names, both in the managing and playing area, Gulf is also strengthening its hand, especially here in Asia, where we have just broken ground on a new world class lubricants factory. I remain incredibly excited about the prospect of us both moving forward together.”
Commenting on the size of Man Utd’s fanbase in China commercial director Jamie Reigle said: “We have been proud to underline our continued commitment to China both on and off the football pitch. We enjoy the passionate and loyal support of more than 100 million followers here, making this the country with more Manchester United fans than any other in the world.”
Manchester United play Borussia Dortmund in Shanghai Friday July 22 followed by a derby match against Man City in Beijing on Monday July 25. This will be the first time the two clubs have played each other outside of England and the first time managers Pep Guardiola and Jose Mourinho have renewed their rivalry in their new Manchester colours.
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