Microsoft unveiled as Rugby World Cup sponsor

Microsoft New Zealand has been unveiled as an official sponsor of the Rugby World Cup later this year.
Under the terms of the deal, Microsoft's software and cloud product services, such as Windows 7, Microsoft Office 2010, Windows Server, SQL Server, SharePoint Server and SharePoint Online, will be available to the tournament's key stakeholders. Microsoft Silverlight technology will also offer a content distribution system for fans watching online.
Other official sponsors of the tournament include Brancott Estate, Toshiba and Land Rover while Emirates Airline, MasterCard, Heineken, ANZ, DHL and Soci�t� G�n�rale are worldwide partners. The competition will run from 9th September to 23rd October.
International Rugby Board President and Rugby World Cup Limited Chairman Bernard Lapasset stated "the appointment of a world leader in the software and technology field further underlines the enormous attraction and prestige of the tournament in the global sporting calendar."
Microsoft New Zealand Managing Director Paul Muckleston added "Rugby World Cup 2011 is set to be the biggest international sporting event in New Zealand's history, from both an economic and tourism point of view. The number of international visitors anticipated to attend the tournament means as Kiwis this is our chance to showcase our country. Microsoft is very proud and excited to be involved."