Betway Backs UK Championship
Betway has signed an agreement with World Snooker to become title sponsor of the newly-named 2015 Betway UK Championship.
Taking place at the Barbican in York at the end of November, the 2015 Betway UK Championship represents the online bookmaker’s latest foray into snooker sponsorship, after recently backing World Snooker’s Shoot-Out tournament and the World Seniors Championship in early March.
Last year, Ronnie O’Sullivan won the title for the fifth time, beating Judd Trump 10-9 in the final.
Betway’s CEO Richard Akitt said: “Betway is delighted to confirm our commitment to snooker fans everywhere by extending our presence in the sport in sponsoring such a prestigious tournament.
“Snooker is a sport which is going places with worldwide viewing figures increasing year-on-year and it’s fantastic for us to be associated with the game as it breaks new ground.”
World Snooker chairman Barry Hearn said: “We are thrilled to welcome Betway on board for what is truly one of the crown jewels of the snooker calendar.
“The Betway UK Championship will be watched by many millions of people across the planet as the very best players compete for one of the most prestigious titles. Last year’s final between O’Sullivan and Trump was an all-time classic.
“We have hosted this event at the York Barbican each year since 2011 and the venue has been a great success, with ticket sales up 20 per cent last year, and we look forward to seeing record crowds again this time.”
Meanwhile, Betway has also appointed broadcaster Sarah Stirk as its golf ambassador for the rest of 2015.
Under the deal, Stirk will provide Betway with exclusive written and video content around the sport’s four majors, complemented by full social media support from Stirk and use of her name and image rights by Betway.
Having years of experience covering golf for major organizations like Setanta, the BBC and currently Sky Sports and access to the game’s top players, Stirk will be able to give Betway unique behind-the-scenes entry to the world of elite golf and provide her own expert analysis on the sport.
