Emirates teams up with Milan

Emirates, the Dubai-based international airline, is extending its support of football around the world by becoming a sponsor of Milan, the current European Cup holders and one of the most successful clubs in the world.

The three-year sponsorship deal was signed at the Milan training ground and the familiar 'Fly Emirates' signage will now be displayed at the club's San Siro stadium.

"For us it is a very important partnership," Adriano Galliani, AC Milan vice-president and managing director, said.

"We are really proud that Emirates chose Milan as the ideal partner to strengthen its presence in our country."

Ghaith Al Ghaith, executive vice-president, commercial operations worldwide at Emirates, said: "It is very exciting for Emirates to partner the champions of Europe. Emirates has always had a great affinity with the game and this sponsorship extends our support of football across another country."

In addition to the support of Milan, Emirates is an official partner of the World Cup with close links to FIFA.

In 2004, Emirates and Arsenal signed the biggest club sponsorship in English football history - in addition to the Fly Emirates logo on the players' shirts, Emirates also has the naming rights of their new stadium.