Mitsubishi extends Badminton sponsorship for three years

The Japanese automotive firm will invest £2m in the Badminton Horse Trials between 2008 and 2010 making the world's premier Three Day Event Mitsubishi's biggest single sponsorship investment.

The firm will use the event, which takes place between May 3th and May 6th, to promote two new 4x4 models, the new Outlander and Shogun.

Jim Tyrrell, CEO of Mitsubishi Motors, said: "Badminton Horse Trials has become an integral part of Mitsubishi's brand and marketing activities. 2007 is a very important year for the company. Badminton provides the perfect backdrop to engage with our core customers."

Hugh Thomas, director of Badminton, added: "This has always been a happy sponsorship relationship. Mitsubishi is an international brand and so is Badminton. Mitsubishi Motors UK is a British company, likewise Badminton.

"Both are also local brands in the West of England. We encompass international, national and local all together. We look forward to another three years of a great partnership of commerce and sport."

Earlier this year Mitsubishi raised the prize money to £250,000, with a record £55,000 going to the winner.