bwin Hits the Slopes with Three Year Ski Sponsorship

bwin Interactive Entertainment has announced a sponsorship agreement with the organizing committee of the Hahnenkamm race, one of the world's most demanding ski races on the World Cup circuit in the online gaming operator's home country of Austria.

Under the sponsorship agreement, which runs until 2012, bwin will have exclusive branding at the legendary Seidlalm curve, including a sixty-metre advertising board during both the Super G and Downhill races. In addition bwin will be featured prominently throughout the slalom course.

The Hahnenkamm race consists of three disciplines, Super G on the Streifalm, Downhill on the Streif, and Slalom on the Ganslemhang. The 70th staging of the skiing event will take place next year from January 22nd to 24th in Kitzbühel, Austria, and will be televised live on Austrian television.

"We are extremely pleased to announce this sponsorship agreement today," said bwin Co-CEO Manfred Bodner. "In the years since its conception, the race has developed into a huge event and it fascinates 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."

In addition to extensive branding at the courses, bwin will also be able to capitalise on numerous marketing rights and activities such as PR, hospitality, marketing services and promotions. bwin will also have a presence on press backdrops, as well as at the official draw and throughout the winner ceremony.

"bwin is one of the world's most recognized and reliable sponsors within sports. We are therefore very delighted to reveal this partnership today, as it strengthens our connection to leading international brands," said Dr. Michael Huber, President of the Kitzbühel Ski Club.

"Whilst bwin has developed very rapidly into a global player, it has never forgotten about its roots, which exactly matches our values."