Yingli Solar recently had tryouts in China for the upcoming FC Bayern Munich Youth Cup later this year.
Yingli, one of the world’s premier solar manufacturers, along with Central China Television (CCTV 5), aired the last match of the “Who is the King” qualifying tournament in Beijing’s National Gym.
Hundreds of Chinese Youth have the chance to play for China’s FC Bayern Munich Youth Cup squad for this year’s cup finals, being held in Munich, Germany.
Besides China, other countries participating include; Austria, India, United States and Thailand, and Germany. All players involved will see a live FC Bayern Munich game, when they take on Mainz at the Allianz Arena. FC Bayern Munich is one of the premier soccer clubs in the world — not only in the Bundesliga, but also in Europe. Currently leading the Bundesliga by a huge margin, it will begin Round of 16 play in the UEFA Champions League knockout stage against Ukrainian champions Shakhtar Donetsk this week. Bayern has won in its history 24 German titles, 17 cups, and 5 European club championships.
Yingli Solar Vice President of Global Marketing Judy Tzeng Lee said Yingli is proud to support FC Bayern Munich in promoting soccer in China while raising awareness of solar energy among the broader public.
“China is one of the most important growth markets for FC Bayern, and we’re pleased to have a sponsor like Yingli to help us become more established in the region. By partnering with Yingli to give China’s most promising youth footballers the opportunity to compete at the Allianz Arena, we are helping to develop a strong football culture in China,” said Paul Breitner, FC Bayern Munich’s Brand Ambassador.
Solar in sports is becoming more popular, and increasing acceptance in the public domain. Bayern Munich last summer installed a rooftop solar panel at its training facility. Yingli last year was a sponsor of the 2014 FIFA World Cup and was key in providing solar panels for many facilities.
Meanwhile, the US Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) recently released a report detailing the dramatic increase in solar installations within United States pro sports facilities.
Using sports is a great marketing tool for solar companies in branding their product to more consumers. After all, this year’s Super Bowl between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks was the most-watched television program in US history. The UEFA Champions League final often surpasses the Super Bowl in global viewership. In the future, don’t be surprised to see solar companies splurge on advertising on more big-ticket sporting events in a bid to attract more customers. They certainly should.
