January 15 – The Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC) has been named the exclusive Premier Founding Partner of the soon-to-be opened Kai Tak Sports Park in Hong Kong.
Penned to open its doors ahead of March’s Rugby Sevens tournament, the stadium’s new sponsor forms part of the ‘Championing Hong Kong’ Partnership Programme, which aims to promote community sports development to build a healthier and more connected community.
The partnership will take effect as soon as the stadium is complete some time in the coming weeks. The first official images of the stadium were revealed last week, giving a glimpse of just how close it is to opening its doors.
The Hong Kong football association revealed that several promoters have expressed interest in bringing some of Europe’s top clubs to the Kai Tak this summer, with sources indicating that Tottenham Hotspur is on the verge of agreeing to play at the newly-opened Stadium in July.
Manchester United and FC Barcelona have also been floated as potential guests for the summer fixtures as Hong Kong bookmarks the summer to show off the region’s new crown jewel.
Speaking on the partnership with HSBC, John Sharkey, project director of Kai Tak Sports Park Limited, said: “By leveraging Kai Tak Sports Park’s world-class multipurpose facilities we will have international sports and entertainment events. This collaboration aims to develop a platform that boosts the City’s reputation and economic activity in this sector transforming Hong Kong into an Event Capital by injecting continuous new momentum into our local economy.”
No value was given for the sponsorship.
Luanne Lim, CEO of HSBC Hong Kong, added: “I am proud that we are able to support such an incredible landmark. The KTSP not only reflects Hong Kong’s success on the global stage but also serves as a vibrant hub for our community.
“I look forward to welcoming our international clients to the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens (a Rugby Sevens tournament held annually in Hong Kong on a weekend in late March or early April) at the 50,000-capacity Kai Tak Stadium in March. This partnership also aligns with our upcoming celebration of 160 years in Hong Kong. We are excited to partner with the KTSP to enhance Hong Kong’s presence in international sports and entertainment.”
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1736970457labto1736970457ofdlr1736970457owedi1736970457sni@g1736970457niwe.1736970457yrrah1736970457
