Contract for Difference provider also backs Team Sky
Recently named a co-sponsor of Team Sky, IG Markets has further reinforced its link with cycling after the announcement that it will sponsor the first two stages of the Santos Tour Down Under.
The deal will see the first two days of the race named IG Markets stage 1 and IG Markets stage 2, and will run for three years.
“This partnership will be an added boost to South Australia’s efforts in reaching out to a more global audience through our biggest sporting event, and showcasing what we have to offer as a tourism destination,” said race director Mike Turtur.
The 2011 edition of the race will be held between January 16 – 23rd, and is based around the Adelaide area of Australia. The opening stage is a lumpy 138 kilometre race between Mawson Lakes to Angaston, while the following day will be a 146 kilometre contest from Tailem Bend to Mannum.
IG Markets Australia CEO Tamas Szabo said that cycling is a sport that the Contract For Difference provider has decided to be involved in. “We are delighted to be associated with cycling on a world scale, and so were thrilled to recently announce our global sponsorship of Team Sky,” he stated.
“Cycling is not only enjoying a renaissance, it also registers well with our target market. We are sure that our commitment to this event will be both long and mutually rewarding.”
Turtur referred to the race as “our State’s greatest sporting event and biggest tourism drawcard,” and said that the sponsors and fans both play a crucial role.
The Santos Tour Down Under is the first race on the UCI’s World Tour series, and will consequently feature each of the 18 ProTeams. Several big name riders have already been confirmed for the 2011 edition, including top sprinters Mark Cavendish (HTC-Highroad), double race winner Andre Greipel (Omega Pharma Lotto), 2009 champion Allan Davis (Astana), Tyler Farrar (Garmin-Cervélo), Francesco Cicchi and his Quick Step team-mate, former world under 23 champion Andre Greipel. Lance Armstrong (Team RadioShack) will also take part, riding his last international race.