Kia Backs England Women’s Cricket

ECB has announced a new deal with Kia Motors, who becomes an official partner of England women’s cricket in a new two year deal – the first ever standalone commercial arrangement for the team.

In signing the agreement the car manufacturer therefore becomes the first ever official England women’s cricket partner.  

Under the terms of the deal Kia will become the sole title sponsor of England women’s home Test matches during the next two years – first against India at Wormsley Cricket Ground this August, followed by the Women’s Ashes Test against Australia next summer. 

The partnership will also give Kia a range of sponsorship and marketing rights around the England women’s team, including in-ground activation at women’s international matches in England.

Contracted England women’s players will be provided with the all-new Kia Sportage car for the duration of the two-year sponsorship term.   

ECB chief executive, David Collier – who has announced he will be stepping down at the end of the season – said of the deal: ‘We are delighted to welcome Kia as a new official partner of England women’s cricket.  This agreement is a ground-breaking first for the England women’s team and reflects the huge success the side has enjoyed over the last 12 months, along with the players’ wider role as superb ambassadors for the sport.’

‘It also illustrates how important media exposure is for the promotion of women’s cricket and we are indebted to our principal live broadcast partners, Sky Sports and BBC Radio, whose excellent coverage plays such a vital role in making the sport attractive to potential business partners.’

Clare Connor, ECB’s head of women’s cricket, commented: ‘This is a historic step for England women’s cricket and I am thrilled to be embarking on this new partnership with Kia.’  

‘Major global brands want to be associated with winners, and it is fantastic that the team’s outstanding performances on the field and growing media profile have enabled the England women’s cricket to earn their first-ever standalone commercial deal. This is a significant breakthrough for both women’s cricket and women’s sport as a whole, and I’m sure our commercial team will be working closely with Kia to help them achieve maximum exposure for their brand.’

Paul Philpott, President and CEO of Kia Motors (UK) Ltd added: ‘We are delighted to be a major partner of England women’s cricket.  Kia’s affinity with cricket is well known as we have been the lead sponsor of the iconic Oval and Surrey County Cricket Club since 2011.  Supporting the hugely successful England women’s team is the next evolution for Kia in cricket. We wish the team massive success in this summer’s matches and know the team will love driving their Kia Sportages.’