The National Rugby League (NRL) has secured a three-year partnership with Kia Australia.
The deal sees the manufacturer become the official naming-rights partner of Kia Thursday Night Football while also taking on ‘key media assets’ throughout all ARLC events including Premiership matches, State of Origin and Magic Round Brisbane.
NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said “We’re delighted on a number of levels by the partnership. Kia has done a remarkable job with their growth, and it’s a credit to Damien and the management team to deliver in the way they have over the past seven years.
“They are up there with the best performers in the country and have won a number of awards around design and the quality of their vehicles, which is a wonderful story.”
Furthermore, the CEO noted Kia’s track record and history of ‘bringing to life’ sponsorships within sport‘.
He added: “It’s terrific to have Kia take the naming rights for Kia Thursday Night Football, but we’re also incredibly pleased with what Kia can bring at our major events in the way they activate, which will bring great experiences for fans.”
The company’s partnership with the league follows a record-breaking year in 2022 – capping off a 225% growth period for the organisation over the last seven years.
“We want to partner with the best in every industry, and it’s great to bring a vehicle partner in that we are extremely proud to be associated with,” highlighted Damien Meredith, COO of Kia Australia.
“The NRL and its avid supporter base was central in our desire to partner with the NRL for the next three years.”