Ford has agreed to extend its sponsorship of Geelong Cats beyond its factory closure in October next year, the two organisations have announced.
The car marker flagged last year that it would cease manufacturing in Australia in 2016 at a cost of 1200 jobs.
But the world’s longest running sports sponsorship will continue until the end of 2020.
The arrangement began in 1925, ironically offering Geelong footballers jobs at Ford’s Norlane operations.
Geelong chief Brian Cook said he was thrilled with the extension to a 95-year partnership.
“Ford and the Cats have supported each other over this long journey together,” Mr Cook said.
“We both believe we will continue to be at the forefront of our fields in future years and we’ll help each other achieve that success.
“There is, and has been, no more enduring relationship and a greater team than Ford Motor Company and the Cats since 1925.”
Ford Australia president Graeme Whickman said the partnership with Geelong pioneered sports marketing.
“The sponsorship extension symbolises our ongoing investment in Australia and Geelong, including our advanced Research and Development Centre in Geelong and You Yangs Proving Grounds near the city that are part of $300 million in R&D investment this year alone.”
