Audi has significantly enhanced its support of golf in Ireland with the signing of a three year agreement to become Official Sponsor and Official Car to the Irish Open, one of the most prestigious tournaments on The European Tour International Schedule.

Audi’s commitment to the event will commence with the 2007 Irish Open at Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort in Co Limerick, Ireland, from May 17-20.

Commenting on behalf of Audi in Ireland, their Chief Executive Bob O’Callaghan said: “Audi is honoured to support the Irish Open and to stand side-by-side with other sponsors to ensure its continued success at its new venue in the mid-West. Recognised and respected internationally, the Irish Open is a premier sporting event whose long tradition and outstanding reputation are qualities which mirror those that Audi itself enjoys.”

Motorists will have the chance to get their first glimpse of the new Audi A5 Coupe at the Irish Open at Adare Manor where the car will receive its Irish premier. As Official Sponsor and Official Car for the event, Audi have chosen the Irish Open as the platform for its introduction, two months before the first models appear on Irish roads.

A number of models will be on display, one of which is being offered as the prize for a hole in one at the 16th.

George O’Grady, Chief Executive of The European Tour, said: “In signing this deal Audi has shown strong commitment to the Irish Open and to golf in general, which is something that should be applauded.

“Through their cars Audi extol many of the same values as we do – quality, prestige, innovation and sports character – and this new partnership can only enhance the status of the Irish Open, an event that has been won by some of the greatest players in the history of golf.”

Audi has long been a supporter of golf with the Audi Quattro Cup, a Scotch Foursomes competition open to Audi owners and their guests, while in Ireland specifically the company has staged the Audi Padraig Harrington Golf Classic in conjunction with the Links Society. In 2005, this event raised more than €100,000 for medical charities.

The Irish Open was first played in 1927 and the list of multiple winners includes Seve Ballesteros, Nick Faldo, Mark James, Bernhard Langer, Colin Montgomerie, Sam Torrance and Ian Woosnam.

Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort will become the tournament’s 16th different venue when it hosts the 2007 Irish Open next week, with Thomas Björn as defending champion.

For further information, please contact:
European Tour Communications Division
Tel: +44 (0) 1344 840400
Fax: +44 (0) 1344 840444
Email: media@europeantour.com

Roddy Williams
European Tour Press Officer
Tel: +44 1344 840400
Mobile: +44 7899 940029