Kia Extends LPGA's Kia Classic Sponsorship

The LPGA today announced that Kia Motors America has signed a two-year extension to its title sponsorship of the Kia Classic. In addition, the tournament will move to Industry Hills Golf Club at Pacific Palms, marking the LPGA's return to the Los Angeles area for the first time since 2005.

Kia’s sponsorship of the Southern California-based tournament is part of the company's growing portfolio of sports marketing activities, which includes a deal with two-time LPGA winner Michelle Wie, who is the brand’s official golf ambassador. Kia is also the Official Automotive Partner of the NBA (National Basketball Association), and recently completed its inaugural U.S. motorsports campaign in the GRAND-AM Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge Series.

“High-profile sports marketing initiatives have become a core element of our marketing strategy, and the increased exposure and enhanced brand awareness the inaugural Kia Classic tournament provided made it an easy decision to extend our relationship with the LPGA and return as the title sponsor,” said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing and communications, KMA. “We are pleased to once again bring the fun and excitement of world-class competition, including Michelle Wie and all of the talented LPGA players, to golf fans in Southern California.”

“Year after year, Kia continues to increase its market share in the U.S. with its value and transformative design,” said LPGA Commissioner Mike Whan. “Like Kia, our players have ‘The Power to Surprise’ both on and off the golf course. We are extremely happy to renew our partnership with Kia and look forward to bringing the best female professional golfers in the world back to the Los Angeles market.”