Pro Tour status closer for TDU

Donga said:

Czech Republic vehicle manufacturer Skoda has signed on as a major
partner for the next three years for an undisclosed sum.

"The new deal is expected to see Skoda parade at least 50 vehicles during
the tour - if the race can secure Pro Tour status."

But given that they're from Eastern Europe, about 5 of them should make it
to the end of the race :-)

Michael Warner said:

"The new deal is expected to see Skoda parade at least 50
vehicles during the tour - if the race can secure Pro Tour
status."

But given that they're from Eastern Europe, about 5 of them
should make it to the end of the race :-)

The Czechs have a long history of designing and making excellent
cars, although some corners were certainly cut in the days of
communism.

These days Skoda is owned by VW, and the cars carry VW running
gear.

John

John Henderson said:

These days Skoda is owned by VW, and the cars carry VW running
gear.

As spares?

Theo

Theo Bekkers said:

John Henderson said:

These days Skoda is owned by VW, and the cars carry VW running
gear.

As spares?

Theo

No, as sponsored uniforms for the passenger running for help.

Donga said:

The Advertiser
VAL MIGLIACCIO
August 29

THE Tour Down Under is another step closer to earning world cycling's
elite Pro Tour status after securing a key Tour de France sponsor.

Czech Republic vehicle manufacturer Skoda has signed on as a major
partner for the next three years for an undisclosed sum.

More: http://tinyurl.com/3x5cpy

If that happens it would ultra-megacool-fabbo.

but...

<engages cynical ex ad industry brain>

is this a real offer? If it is bully for SKODA.

However I can't help but get a slightly nervous twitch reading this one (and the recent travel agent purportedly pledging to back an Oz Tour team if the Feds put up matching funding...). I have been involved in a few marketing / branding campaigns which have employed a clever approach for what basically amounts to free advertising. (never said i was proud of it :rolleyes🙂

Pick a topical subject. One that is strongly followed by the market-segment that you want to sell your product to. Announce you will do 'X' 'if' such and such becomes a reality. It's similar to a bit of harmless product placement.
IE common benefit for both parties involved.
It certainly won't hurt the TDU, as even if my suspicions are true (hopefully not tho!) it raises the profile and another organisation may even consider approaching for competing or the naming rights sponsorship of the TDU etc etc).

At the end of the day it doesn't really matter because either way it has given cycling another good shot in the arm and some good press. SKODA should be applauded for their show of potential support regardless of whether the pro tour status is achieved or not.

It's funny sometimes watching the news/press now and trying to spot the stories with a secondary agenda. Some TV programs almost make a living from it.

Like I said.. Just a theory, but crossing fingers it's more

</engages cynical ex ad industry brain>