In case you missed it – In a dynamic collaboration that promises to reshape the landscape of football sponsorships in New Zealand, CUPRA has officially become the motor vehicle partner of Auckland FC. This partnership was sealed amidst much anticipation, marking another strategic step for both organisations in their quest for global influence and community impact.
The announcement took place at CUPRA’s state-of-the-art showroom on Auckland’s North Shore, with a gathering that included Auckland FC Head Coach Steve Corica, players Louis Verstraete, Felipe Gallegos, and Guillermo May, alongside CUPRA General Manager Luke Meurant. The partnership further cements CUPRA’s reputation for aligning with ambitious, forward-thinking football clubs, adding Auckland FC to a prestigious roster that includes FC Barcelona and the Australian Women’s National Soccer Team, the Matildas.
Nick Becker, CEO of Auckland FC, expressed his excitement about the collaboration, highlighting how both entities are united in their mission to challenge norms and contribute positively to Auckland’s community. “CUPRA and AFC both have much in common and share many of the same goals and ambitions. We’re both keen to shake things up in Auckland and are aligned in our desire to grow the game nationally,” Becker stated.
As part of this multi-faceted agreement, the CUPRA brand will gain prominent visibility, with their logo set to appear on the shorts of Auckland FC players. This move not only enhances CUPRA’s brand presence but also supports the club’s aspirations to expand its influence and success within and beyond New Zealand.
Luke Meurant of CUPRA emphasized the brand’s commitment to challenging the status quo and driving innovation in the automotive industry while supporting burgeoning football culture in New Zealand. “Like Auckland FC, we’re a young brand experiencing rapid growth and building a legacy of success. We’re here to challenge, to stir things up, and to continue on our path towards becoming a truly global brand,” Meurant noted.
CUPRA, known for its innovative approach to automotive design and performance, is part of the prestigious Volkswagen group. It is already making significant waves in the automotive market, combining style and sportiness in a way that appeals to a younger, more adventurous audience.
Nick Becker underscored the significance of this partnership, not just for the club and CUPRA, but for the city and football in New Zealand as a whole. “This agreement is a big deal for us, the city, and football in the country. Once again, it demonstrates we’re not just here to make up the numbers, but to win,” he added.
Auckland FC, which is majority-owned by businessman Bill Foley with Ali Williams and Anna Mowbray as local co-owners, will play their home games at Mt Smart’s Go Media Stadium. With CUPRA now in their corner, the club looks poised to drive forward with renewed vigor and commitment to both excellence on the pitch and community engagement.
This partnership with Auckland FC represents a strategic extension of CUPRA’s growing global footprint, and underscores its belief in football’s power to unite communities and inspire change.
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