Mercedes to name Shanghai arena

German car manufacturer Mercedes-Benz has acquired the 10-year naming rights of the new arena under construction at Shanghai's World Expo site.

The multi-purpose 18,000-seater arena, being built on the banks of the city's Huangpu River, is one of a dozen American National Basketball Association (NBA)-style arenas being built in China to provide the infrastructure of an NBA-branded league in China.

The venues, which will exploit basketball's huge fan base in China, are being developed in partnership by the NBA and billionaire businessman Philip Anschutz's AEG entertainment group.

Speaking of the naming, John Cappo, President and Chief Executive of AEG China explained "Mercedes-Benz is a world-renowned brand that represents luxury and innovation, and we are delighted that this state-of-the-art arena, and new landmark for Shanghai, will bear its name.

"These modern and innovative arenas and entertainment districts we are developing with our partners will become complete lifestyle destinations and great platforms for brands and marketers to communicate directly to their target customers. We appreciate Mercedes-Benzâs strong commitment to developing and supporting arts, entertainment and sports in China and are delighted to have Mercedes-Benz as our partner. Mercedes-Benz Arena is where the icon of motion will meet the icon of entertainment. This is history in the making."

The stadium will be officially known as the Mercedes-Benz Arena in 2011. It will host events including performing arts, sports and family entertainment.

Image shows the Mercedes-Benz Arena, Shanghai.

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