COLUMBUS – Columbus Crew SC today announced that it has partnered with luxury automobile manufacturer Audi of America in a deal that will see their brand named the Official Luxury Automobile Partner of Columbus Crew SC. Highlights of the partnership include the naming rights to MAPFRE Stadium’s VIP Terrace – now known as the "Audi Terrace" – as well as Audi becoming the presenting sponsor of the Black & Gold’s match this Saturday, June 13 versus the LA Galaxy.
Audi operates globally in more than 100 markets and employs approximately 80,000 people worldwide. In 2014, the Audi Group delivered approximately 1,741,100 cars to customers, achieving revenue of $59.8 billion as well as an operating profit of $5.72 billion.
"We proudly welcome Audi and the Columbus Audi Dealers to the Columbus Crew SC family as our Official Luxury Automobile Partner," said Crew SC President of Business Operations Andy Loughnane. "Audi maintains unrivaled brand standards in the Luxury category and the passion of their products aligns extremely well with the passion of our audience."
The premier hospitality location at MAPFRE Stadium, the VIP Terrace, has been renamed to reflect the Audi brand as the "Audi Terrace." Audi becomes the exclusive presenting sponsor of the terrace with prominent branding inside and outside of the area.
In addition, Crew SC’s match this Saturday, June 13 against the LA Galaxy is slated to be presented by Audi in an exclusive title night opportunity. Representatives from Audi are set to participate in the coin toss and the ceremonial captain’s photo. It was recently announced that, due to high supporter demand, the capacity of MAPFRE Stadium would be temporarily expanded for this contest against the defending MLS Cup champions.
"Audi remains committed to soccer and raising the profile of the game in the United States. As a major supporter of the sport globally and the Official Automotive Partner of MLS, we’re looking forward to further expanding this presence through our partnership here in Columbus, and our Columbus Audi Dealers have been critical in making this happen," said Andrea Santilli, Marketing Manager for Audi in the Midwest.
Several supplemental elements of the deal in Columbus include in-stadium LED signage, television and radio media, in-market promotions, grassroots marketing and hospitality.
