Firestyle Magazine Issue 7 - Spring 2017 | Page 23

KIA AND SURREY COUNTY CRICKET CLUB EXTEND SPONSORSHIP TILL 2020 Surrey County Cricket Club and Kia Motors (UK) Ltd, have renewed their partnership for a further three years extending Kia’s sponsorship of Surrey County Cricket Club and the Kia Oval until the end of 2020. Since the partnership between Surrey CCC and Kia began in 2011, the Kia Oval has witnessed six years of cricket at the highest level including two final Ashes Test Matches and seen Twenty20 crowds more than double to over 130,000 spectators in 2016. In addition, 2017 will see the Kia Oval become just the fourth ground in the world to host its 100th Test Match when England take on South Africa on July 27. As one of the most successful partnerships in cricket, the historic ground’s naming rights sponsorship ensures that Kia’s logo will feature on advertising boards and stands around the stadium. Kia will also remain the primary sponsor of both the First XI and the Surrey Stars women’s team. This means that England stars such as Jason Roy, Natalie Sciver and Tammy Beaumont will all be seen in Kia sponsored-clothing during the summer months. Simon Hetherington, Commercial Director of Kia Motors (UK) Limited said: “The relationship with Surrey CCC has been a great one for us, especially the link with the iconic Oval. As our brand moves dramatically forward in the motoring world it makes sense to extend our relationship with Surrey as the club looks to challenge for top cricketing honours once again. We are truly delighted to be extending our sponsorship.” Speaking about the deal, Charlie Hodgson, Commercial Director at Surrey County Cricket Club, said: “We are really excited that Kia have chosen to extend their commitment to Surrey, the Surrey Stars and the Kia Oval for another three years. The new deal will ensure that Kia’s sponsorship is one of the longest and most recognisable in the game. “Since the start of the relationship in 2011, the Club has grown hugely both on and off the pitch and we hope to continue that over the coming years, with an exciting young team and more full houses at the Kia Oval. It is fantastic that such a renowned and ambitious multi- national brand chooses to partner with cricket in a major way. 23