Marks The U.K. Club's First Deal With A Russian Company

The U.K. soccer team Manchester United has announced a five-year partnership with Aeroflot. The Moscow-based international airline will become the Club’s Official Carrier. This partnership marks the Club’s first commercial venture in Russia - an expanding market it is keen to explore further and where it has close to 18 million followers.

Announced at a ceremony at United’s Old Trafford stadium Monday, Aeroflot’s CEO Vitaly Saveliev and Manchester United’s Group Managing Director, Richard Arnold were joined by team manager, David Moyes and the first team squad, to celebrate the partnership. As the Official Carrier of Manchester United, Aeroflot will provide the English Premier League champions with strategic advice on travel for the team and club representatives.

"Manchester United and Aeroflot share several core values and we are pleased to be welcoming such a high quality company as a sponsor," said Manchester United’s Group Managing Director, Richard Arnold. "Like the Club, Aeroflot demonstrates team work, quality and a pride in its heritage, whilst still embracing new technologies and innovation Aeroflot is celebrating its 90th birthday this year, but has already impressed us with its youthful energy. We look forward to developing a meaningful partnership with them and reaching our fans in innovative and rewarding ways."

Founded in 1923, Aeroflot is Russia’s leading airline, having recently won ‘Best Airline in Eastern Europe’ at the SKYTRAX World Airline Awards. Its latest accolades include Russia’s ‘Company of the Year 2012’.

FMI: www.manutd.com