Volkswagen Middle East champions young talent with Gulf United FC sponsorship

Press release

Published March 5th, 2024 - 07:41 GMT

Volkswagen Middle East champions

Volkswagen Middle East has announced its sponsorship of Gulf United Football Club, a collaboration rooted in their shared vision of driving a more inclusive future for the sport in local communities. The partnership will see the launch of the inaugural Volkswagen Cup – a tournament designed for young players and families to support grassroots football in the United Arab Emirates.

Recently becoming part of the first division league, Gulf United FC, is the UAE’s first team to ever gain back-to-back promotions and league titles. The club is also committed to nurturing the next generation of young players through its academy as well as its residential and scholarship programs.

Renowned for its dedication to player development, Gulf United FC has worked with Volkswagen Middle East to design a fun-filled competition for budding footballers – both girls and boys – aged 4-12 years old. The event will host 32 teams at Kings School Al Barsha on 8th March 2024.

Matthias Ziegler, Managing Director, Volkswagen Middle East, said: "Our partnership with Gulf United FC brings the people's club together with the people's car. At Volkswagen Middle East we’re more than just vehicles; we’re about the experiences that bring people together. Teaming up with Gulf United FC reflects our ‘Made for Everyone’ spirit, driving forward joy, passion, and a sense of community through the power of football.”

Mohammed Jarad, Director of Marketing, Gulf United Football club, said: “Gulf United FC was built to create a brighter future for young people through the power of sports. In partnership with Volkswagen, we look forward to creating more opportunities that allow every individual, regardless of their ability, to partake, grow, and excel in football.”

Volkswagen Middle East’s sponsorship of Gulf United FC comes following the successful and ongoing partnership with Qatar Foundation signed last year, marking another key milestone in the brand’s “we drive football” global strategy.

Background Information

Volkswagen Middle East

Volkswagen’s relationship with the Middle East dates back to when the first Beetle was sold here many years ago. Since then, the brand has witnessed an exponential expansion. In 2005 Volkswagen, Europe’s largest car manufacturer, confirmed its commitment to its customers and partners in the region with the opening of the Volkswagen Middle East Regional Office based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. This initiative has allowed the brand to introduce a wider variety of Volkswagen models to the region and strengthen their dedication to their patrons.