Etihad extends Melbourne stadium sponsorship

Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Airways has signed a “multi-million dollar agreement” to extend its sponsorship of Melbourne’s Etihad Stadium until 2019.

The deal involves a five-year extension of the naming and marketing rights to the stadium. The airline first became a sponsor in March 2009, the same month it commenced flights between Melbourne and Abu Dhabi.

The multi-use stadium, which has a massive retractable roof, claims to have had more than 25 million visitors since opening in March 2000. It has been used to host football, cricket and rugby games, as well as concerts by acts including U2, Bon Jovi and Eminem.

Etihad has upped its game in sports sponsorship in recent years. Last year it announced that the Manchester City football ground in the UK would be renamed the Etihad Stadium, in a 10-year deal that also included shirt sponsorship.

Three ways to get a gratitude glow

By committing to at least one of these daily, you can bring more gratitude into your life, says Ong.

During your morning skincare routine, name five things you are thankful for about yourself.
As you finish your skincare routine, look yourself in the eye and speak an affirmation, such as: “I am grateful for every part of me, including my ability to take care of my skin.”
In the evening, take some deep breaths, notice how your skin feels, and listen for what your skin is grateful for.

Key facilities

Olympic-size swimming pool with a split bulkhead for multi-use configurations, including water polo and 50m/25m training lanes
Premier League-standard football pitch
400m Olympic running track
NBA-spec basketball court with auditorium
600-seat auditorium
Spaces for historical and cultural exploration
An elevated football field that doubles as a helipad
Specialist robotics and science laboratories
AR and VR-enabled learning centres
Disruption Lab and Research Centre for developing entrepreneurial skills