Double winning Ryder Cup star, Francesco Molinari is set to smoke some serious rubber after signing a deal with Italian tyre giant, Pirelli.
As Italy’s leading golfer, Francesco has been on the front row of the sporting grid for many years representing his beloved country on the European Tour and more recently on the international stage.
The 30-year old younger brother to Edoardo captured the 2006 Italian Open in Milan as his maiden European Tour success before the stroke-play highlight of his pro career in defeating the world’s best and capture the 2010 WGC – HSBC Champions event in Shanghai.
Months earlier, Molinari helped steer Europe to success in the 2010 Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor in Wales.
A third European Tour win in the 2012 Spanish Open ensured Francesco’s place in the then victorious 2012 European side.
And like the history of legendary tyre manufacturer Pirelli, Molinari grabbed the chequered flag when he and Tiger Woods halved their final Sunday Singles match that sealed Europe’s stunning one point Miracle at Medinah success in suburban Chicago.
For its part, Pirelli is recognised as a global innovator, driving progress in its core businesses through unique alliances and partnerships, such as deriving high performance know-how for its road car tyres from its role as the official tyre supplier to Formula One.
Design, style and high performance characterise Pirelli and the partnership with Francesco will be identified by Pirelli’s having their logo on his club grips, as well as branding on his golf bag, fusing one of Italy’s best known brands with one of its elite sportsmen.
“Francesco said “I am very honoured to be able to announce Pirelli as a sponsor for 2013. I have followed their success in all motor sport especially in Formula 1 and I hope to be a good ambassador for them as they enter into the world of golf. I look forward to a future working with Pirelli.”
Pirelli’s decision to now support Molinari sees the world’s fifth largest tyre manufacturer linking golf with sponsorship of famed soccer club F.C. Internazionale Milano.
“Our dedication to continued investment in the North American market includes plans for increased brand awareness through strategic and innovative methods,” said Pirelli’s NAFTA Region Chairman and CEO Paolo Ferrari.
“A portion of our premium strategy has always remained outside the immediate industrial sector in the world of sports, arts and culture; much of this is what lends itself to differentiating the brand as more than just a tire company.
“And for Pirelli working with Francesco is a new exciting adventure that confirms our excellence strategy in sustaining the world of sport.
“There is a natural link between his golf grips and our industry that could be developed combining his technique and our industrial knowledge which could lead us to make this sport more exciting.
“We are looking forward to making the most out of this partnership.”
* For more details contact Clare Craig at Hambric Sports Group – clare@hsgeurope.com
