Sony Joins Forces With Phoenix

November 20, 2007

Sony Joins Forces With Phoenix

WELLINGTON Phoenix FC has scored a significant goal with confirmation today that global electronics giant Sony has joined the club as principal sponsor.

The landmark partnership is a major coup for the Phoenix and football in New Zealand, with Sony's logo to feature proudly on the front and back of Phoenix playing shirts and training gear.

The sponsorship deal kicks in for the remainder of the Hyundai A-League 2007/08 season and also takes in next season. Sony has first option to continue the partnership for a further two years.

Sony New Zealand managing director Martin McManus said the rise of the Wellington Phoenix and the club's commitment to excellence was a perfect fit for the electronics giant, which manufactures audio, video, communications and information technology products for the global consumer and professional markets.

"Football has massive appeal across the globe and as a result Sony has official partnerships with both FIFA and the UEFA Champions League on the international playing field. For Sony New Zealand, sponsoring the Wellington Phoenix is about supporting football on our home turf and ensuring Sony is an integral part of an exciting emerging sport right here in New Zealand."

There were considerable benefits and synergies for both organisations, said Mr McManus.

"Football is a game that incites both passion and emotion and involves great skill, meticulous timing and real moments of drama, all of which can be captured, defined and relived with a team of products from the Sony range.

"We are looking forward to the Wellington Phoenix giving us - and all the club's fans throughout the country - some exciting moments this season and in the future that are like no other."

Mr McManus said Sony New Zealand had hand-picked the Phoenix for the sponsorship arrangement.

"Wellington Phoenix FC has already proven it is a club that's going places. It has an experienced management team, a hugely talented squad of players and in a very short period of time has gained a loyal fan base.

"We believe the profile of football in New Zealand will be lifted immensely by this new club."

Wellington Phoenix chief executive Tony Pignata said the deal with Sony was a coup and would further enhance the club's impressive work to date.

"It's a huge vote of confidence, not only for the Phoenix but also for football in New Zealand. We're thrilled to be associated with Sony, an iconic, global brand. This sponsorship deal is further evidence that the Phoenix and football are on the rise in this country."

About Sony:

Sony manufactures audio, video, communications and information technology products for the global consumer and professional markets. Sony New Zealand Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Corporation, is responsible for the company's electronics business in New Zealand.

ENDS

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