Gulf Oil International has signed a long-term partnership with football giants Manchester United, which will make the company the English team’s official global lubricant and fuel retail partner.
The Manchester United partnership with Gulf Oil International runs initially until the end of the 2018-19 season, Gulf Oil International said. It marks the largest single partnership ever undertaken by the global oil and fuel brand owned by India’s $18 billion Hinduja Group, which also owns the commercial vehicle manufacturer Ashok Leyland.
The agreement will give Gulf Oil International access to Manchester United assets including the club crest and player images. Meanwhile, Gulf’s orange disc will feature on the Club’s digital perimeter boards during Premier League, FA Cup and League Cup matches at Old Trafford.
Gulf Oil Vice President International Frank Rutten said that the brand is already well established in motorsport circles, and the new deal represents an opportunity to expand beyond motorsport sponsorships. “This partnership with Manchester United brings together two brands with incredible heritage, a pride in performance excellence and the ability to listen to the wishes of their customers.”
The partnership also marks a further step in Gulf Oil International’s plans to strengthen its brand presence globally, the company said. The agreement will also enable it to engage with Manchester United’s worldwide fan base, which includes 325 million followers in Asia – a major focus area for the company, which has a strong presence in India as well as rapidly developing businesses in China, the Middle East and Indonesia.
“Gulf Oil International already has significant experience in sport and we are looking forward to working with them to expand that into football,” said Manchester United group managing director Richard Arnold.
“Through this partnership we will further our commitment to reach our fans around the world, especially in Asia.”
Gulf Oil International’s Gulf lubricants brand is present in over 110 countries. The company also operates petrol stations in 22 countries and has a global marine business.