Kia Becomes England Women’s Cricket First Sole Major Sponsor

Automobile manufacturer Kia has expanded its association in cricket after announcing a two-year sponsorship deal with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). 

Kia, who already has an association with Surrey Cricket and naming rights to the Oval, will now be the official car of England women’s cricket and their first ever standalone commercial arrangement. 

Under the terms of the agreement Kia will become the sole title sponsor of England women’s home Test matches during the next two years – first against India at Wormsley Cricket Ground this August, followed by the Women’s Ashes Test against Australia next summer.  The partnership will also give Kia a range of sponsorship and marketing rights around the England women’s team, including in-ground activation at women’s international matches in England. 

Contracted England women’s players will be provided with the all-new Kia Sportage car for the duration of the two-year sponsorship term. 

Clare Connor, ECB’s Head of Women’s Cricket, commented: “This is a historic step for England women’s cricket and I am thrilled to be embarking on this new partnership with Kia. 

“Major global brands want to be associated with winners, and it is fantastic that the team’s outstanding performances on the field and growing media profile have enabled the England women’s cricket to earn their first-ever standalone commercial deal. This is a significant breakthrough for both women’s cricket and women’s sport as a whole, and I’m sure our commercial team will be working closely with Kia to help them achieve maximum exposure for their brand.” 

Paul Philpott, President and CEO of Kia Motors (UK) Ltd commented: “We are delighted to be a major partner of England women’s cricket.  Kia’s affinity with cricket is well known as we have been the lead sponsor of the iconic Oval and Surrey County Cricket Club since 2011.  Supporting the hugely successful England women’s team is the next evolution for Kia in cricket.  We wish the team massive success in this summer’s matches and know the team will love driving their Kia Sportages.”

Watch below to see iSportconnect TV’s interview with Mark Hopkins, Kia Motors UK Marketing Director, speaking about the deal:

{jcomments on}