LG Electronics Takes Genuine Interest in Sports

May 21, 2006 (Press Release) -- Amman, Jordan (May 2006)- Aligned with its ongoing aims to sponsor sports events taking place in the region, global and regional digital leader LG Electronics has renewed its contract to sponsor the Iraqi Football Association for another two years.

The agreement's renewal will see vital funds flow into the sport at all levels, and these funds will be used to boost the level of performance within Iraq's national Olympic soccer teams.

Mr. K. W Kim, President of LG Electronics, Middle East and Africa Operations, said: 'Despite tremendous difficulties, Iraq football has made major strides over the last two years, and we are determined to see that this good work continues. We have been inspired by the achievements of the players, as have communities across the Middle East.'

The Iraqi team is currently preparing for the 2008 Asian Cup qualifiers, and is eager to improve on the country's impressive reputation at the Athens Olympics. It reached the quarterfinal in the 2004 Olympics, attracting international attention and the praise of US President George Bush.

Mr. Kim said that LG's sponsorship is a reflection of its belief in football as a means to heal communities, and this sponsorship serves as a reflection of the brand's commitment to the region.

'It is only appropriate that LG announces the extension of its sponsorship of the Iraqi FA in a World Cup year, as LG has a great relationship with the football community, for the ongoing LG Cup is the largest corporate sports event of its type in the region. We have reached thousands of football fans across the Middle East and Africa, and our renewed sponsorship will hopefully see the joy of football touch more people's lives in Iraq.'

Aside from much needed financial support, LG's sponsorship will help provide for training facilities, equipment, and practice sessions in Jordan. The terms of the agreement are largely unchanged.

The Iraq Football Association's partnership with LG is the first corporate sponsorship in the Association’s history. Announced in Dubai two years ago, the tie-up made international headlines and saw the Iraq Olympic team travel to Seoul as LG's VIP guests to play their Korean counterparts at the Sangam Football Stadium.

Mr. Hussain S. Mohammed, President of the Iraq Football Association, commented: 'I would like to thank LG Electronics for its investment and continued faith in the work of the Iraq Football Association. The progress we have made would not have been possible without the support of LG Electronics. The sponsorship has helped us overcome many practical difficulties in rejuvenating the Iraqi football at all levels of the sport.'

The press conference that took place in Dubai was held to announce the renewal of the agreement. It was attended by Mr. Sudad Al Mutair, Executive Director, Iraqi National Teams; Mr. Laieth Abdul Razak, Manager, Iraq FA; and Mr. Razzak Farhan, captain of the Iraq national team. LG's delegation included Mr. Kevin Cha, General Manager, LG Electronics, and Baghdad Office.

On this occasion, Mr. Razzak Farhan, Iraq national team captain, said: 'We are thrilled that LG Electronics has decided to back us once again, and hope to repay the faith shown in us with more success on the field.'