July 7 – Etihad Airways has expanded its Australian football presence, sponsoring Hyundai A-League side Melbourne City FC in a five-year deal that will see the airline branding on the club’s shirts.
Etihad Airways’ sponsorship portfolio includes Melbourne’s Etihad Stadium as well as Manchester’s Etihad Stadium in Manchester, and Manchester City Football Club. Melbourne FC play at AAMI Park in Melbourne.
Melbourne City FC (formerly known as Melbourne Heart FC), is owned majority owned by the City Football Group (80%), which also owns English Premier League club Manchester City FC and Major League Soccer club New York City FC, and the ownership group of Australian National Rugby League side the Melbourne Storm (20%).
James Hogan, president and CEO of Etihad, said: “Our new partnership with Melbourne City FC further strengthens our ties with this great city and, we hope, will support the Club and its army of fans in their bid to win the Hyundai A-League.
“It’s also a valuable addition to our portfolio of sporting partnerships which includes Barclays Premier League champions, Manchester City FC, and their home ground at Etihad Stadium in Manchester.”
Etihad Airways and Melbourne City FC will also work together on a wider set of initiatives including football schools for children, regular fan competitions, and promotional airfares for Club members and fans.
Melbourne City squad and management leave for a pre-season tour of England today, via Abu Dhabi, and flying with Etihad Airways.
Contact the writer of this story at moc.l1747449802labto1747449802ofdlr1747449802owedi1747449802sni@n1747449802osloh1747449802cin.l1747449802uap1747449802
