V8 SUPERCARS FLYING HIGH WITH ETIHAD

V8 SUPERCARS is one step closer in its quest to become a truly international sport after today announcing a new partnership with Etihad Airways.

The national airline of the United Arab Emirates has come aboard as the Supercars official international airline.

Launching the partnership alongside drivers James Courtney (far left) and Mark Winterbottom at Sydney international airport, chairman Tony Cochrane (pictured ,right) says the agreement matches the international growth targets of the motorsport.

“(Etihad Airways) is the first airline partner for our sport and we believe it is a fitting partnership between a world-class operator and a world-class sport,” he says.

“Earlier this year approximately 500 V8 Supercars personnel flew to Abu Dhabi on-board Etihad Airways flights for the Yas Marina V8 400 and our experience was second to none. We look forward to V8 Supercar fans being given access to exclusive deals and offers as a result of our new partnership with Etihad Airways.”

Etihad Airways is based in the UAE’s capital Abu Dhabi, where V8 Supercars holds the opening round of the Championship.

The Gold Coast organisation was recently given international status by the governing body of world motorsport (the FIA), which allows it to extend to another five destinations outside of Abu Dhabi, Australia and New Zealand.

Etihad has been very active in pursuing Australian and international sponsorship opportunities, including as naming rights sponsor of Melbourne’s Etihad Stadium, English Premier League side Manchester City Football Club and 2011 Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Etihad Airways CEO James Hogan (left), says the announcement is a ‘proud moment’ for the company.

“It marks the beginning of an exciting global partnership between our two organisations which will take our respective brand messages to new audiences the world over,” he says.

“The agreement with V8 Supercars continues our drive for strategic tie-ups with global brands that appeal strongly to our customers and that share our goal of being the world’s best.”

Etihad’s partnership with V8 Supercars will be highlighted through signage and promotions at select V8 Supercar events and content on Etihad’s in-flight entertainment system.

In the coming weeks, V8 Supercars website will also carry links to special offers on Etihad Airways flights around the world.

V8 Supercars’ corporate entity AVESCO is still seeking a buyer for a majority share in Australia’s premier motor racing championship, after this year deciding to reduce or nullify Sports And Entertainment Limited’s ownership.

Mid-March marked the closing date for non-binding expressions of interests for the sale, which has been estimated to be worth up to $240 million. No further announcements on the sale have been made.