Qatar Petroleum signs AFC Asian Cup 2011 deal

Asian Football Confederation (AFC) President Mohamed Bin Hammam has hailed a US$10 million sponsorship deal with Qatar Petroleum that covers the 2011 Asian Cup in Doha, Qatar.

Qatar Petroleum signed the agreement with World Sport Group, the AFC's commercial partners, the details of which were announced at a press conference in Doha on Tuesday.

Welcoming the sponsorship, Bin Hammam stated "I am pleased to have Qatar Petroleum on board.

"Over the years Qatar has shown its commitment towards the development of the sport. Qatar Petroleum has the requisite breadth and social commitment to support us in our endeavours and we look forward to a rewarding partnership.

"Asian football is experiencing a dramatic growth, so weâre delighted that Asiaâs top sport and its players are being supported by some of the world's top brands, who are sharing in our commitment to take Asian football to the world."

Also attending the press conference were the Deputy Premier and Minister of Energy and Industry and chairman of Qatar Petroleum Abdullah bin Hamad al-Attiyah, QFA General Secretary Saoud al-Mohannadi and WSG (West Asia) President Pierre Kakhia.

Al-Attiyah added "Qatar Petroleum is proud to be one of the major sponsors of the Asian Football Confederation.

"We are confident that this contract will really benefit Qatar Petroleumâs brand awareness and help us build our business in the region further. With this partnership with the AFC, we are confident that the sport will continue to develop in Asia."