Canadian Solar Inc. (the "Company", "we" or "Canadian Solar") (NASDAQ: CSIQ), one of the world's largest solar companies, announced that the Company is now the official exclusive sponsor of German top-league soccer teams Hannover 96 and 1. FC Nuremberg. By this commitment, Canadian Solar will become part of one of Germany's oldest sports, rich in tradition. Both new partnerships were arranged by SPORTIVE.
Canadian Solar is proud to join Hannover 96 and 1. FC Nuremberg as their official sponsor starting in the 2011/2012 season through to the end of the 2013/14 season. In return, Canadian Solar will receive dedicated marketing, hospitality and advertising privileges. Among other activities, Canadian Solar's logo will be prominently displayed on stadium signage, interview boards, the official team photo and other advertising spaces at all top league home games.
"Soccer is one the world's most dynamic and most popular sports. The sport is clearly number one in Germany, which guarantees high visibility for our brand. Canadian Solar is active in the north and in the south of Germany, and we are proud to be associated with two leading professional teams representing both parts of the country," said Dr. Shawn Qu, Chairman and CEO of Canadian Solar.
Ranking fourth in the 2010/2011 top league season, Hannover 96 delivered its best season in the club's history positioning it to return to the European soccer theater after 19 years. Their successful and inspired game has delighted the entire Hannover region. "Canadian Solar is a good match to Hannover 96: modern, innovative and creative as well as competitive and market-oriented. I am pleased about this partnership, which reveals how important and attractive the brand Hannover 96 is for nation-wide operating companies," said Martin Kind, General Manager of Hannover 96.
Canadian Solar will also support the traditional 1. FC Nuremberg soccer club as its exclusive sponsor. Having achieved 47 points and ranked 6 in the country, the "Club" is celebrating its second-best season since 1988. "The partnership with Canadian Solar proves that the 'Club' is also a good advertising medium for international companies. Canadian Solar expands our sponsor family and makes a valuable contribution to the further establishment of the Club in Germany's top-league," said Ralf Woy, Executive Board Member, Finance & Operations, of 1. FCN.
Worldwide Sponsoring Activities
In addition to the commitment to support two top-league German soccer teams, Canadian Solar has supported other pro league sports teams over the years. Also in Germany, Canadian Solar sponsors the top league EHC Munich hockey club. In Italy, Canadian Solar is the sponsoring partner of the Italian basketball team Virtus Bologna. In North America, Canadian Solar is a partner of both the New York Yankees and of the San Francisco Giants.