Bwin’s sponsorship is going downhill

Leading online betting and gaming provider Bwin Interactive Entertainment AG has signed a deal to sponsor the annual Hahnenkammrennen World Cup Alpine ski races in Austria.

The agreement with the races’ organising committee will see the Vienna-based firm be ‘exclusively present’ at the legendary Seidlalm curve with its 60 metre advertising board during the Super G and Downhill races.

Running until 2012, Bwin stated that the deal would also see it feature ‘prominently’ throughout the Hahnenkammrennen’s slalom course.

“We are extremely pleased to announce this sponsorship agreement,” said Manfred Bodner, Co-Chief Executive Officer for Bwin.

“In the years since their conception, these races have developed into a huge event and they fascinate even those who do not usually follow ski racing. For us, as an international brand with Austrian roots, it’s an honour to be part of such a global ski highlight.”

The 70th staging of the Hahnenkammrennen will take place from January 22 to 24 near the central Austrian city of Kitzbuhel with Bwin stating that its logo would be present on press backdrops at the official draw as well as throughout victory ceremonies.

“Bwin is one of the world’s most recognised and reliable sponsors within sports,” said Michael Huber, President of the Kitzbuhel Ski Club.

“We are, therefore, very delighted to reveal this partnership today as it strengthens our connection to leading international brands. While Bwin has developed very rapidly into a global player, it has never forgotten about its roots, which exactly matches our values.”