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MATCH appoints ASO to sell FIFA hospitality in France

MATCH Hospitality, the global rights holder of the FIFA Hospitality Programme through to 2015, has appointed Amaury Sport Organisation (ASO) as its exclusive sales agent for France for the FIFA Confederations Cup and World Cup in 2013 and 2014, respectively.

FIFA appointed MATCH Hospitality as its worldwide partner ahead of the Confederations Cup and World Cup in South Africa in 2009 and 2010. MATCH Hospitality, which is based in Zurich and has offices in Johannesburg and Rio de Janeiro, is also representing global Hospitality Programme sales for FIFA for this year’s Women’s World Cup in Germany.

Jaime Byrom, executive chairman of Match Hospitality, described ASO, which organises the leading Tour de France cycling race as a “uniquely qualified partner on board for the traditional French hospitality market”.

He added: “ASO is a partner that has established a successful business network and track record in France through its organisation of major events such as the Tour de France and the Dakar Rally. ASO’s experience and existing relationships will, no doubt, contribute to the overall success of the FIFA Hospitality Programme in France.”

ASO director general Yann Le Moenner said: “This represents a huge opportunity for us and ASO is very proud to be able to place its know-how at the service of such prestigious events. The professionalism that the members of our team are able to acquire through the year-round organisation of a range of competitions will enable us to fully contribute to this new experience.”