Volkswagen will sponsor four Pro Tour events in Asia this year and then all of the Pro Tour events in the Asia Pacific in 2004.
ITTF president Adham Sharara said: "We are extremely happy with this agreement. During the last years we have tried to make changes and improvements in order to make table tennis more attractive for spectators, television and sponsors. This agreement tells us that we are on the right track."
Volkswagen’s main target in the Asian market is China, and the huge Chinese interest in the sport will lead to high levels of exposure and recognition for the company.
The Chinese national broadcaster CCTV has bought the rights to broadcast live all Pro Tour events and the 2005 world championships in Shanghai, which will also be sponsored by the German vehicle maker.
In a separate part of the deal, Volkswagen will be the title sponsor of the Volkswagen German Open and also the sponsor of the German National Team.
The International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) has concluded a sponsorship agreement with car manufacturer Volkswagen AG.
