MasterCard one of the leading golf sponsors

[img_assist|nid=9356|title=|desc=|link=none|align=left|width=79|height=100] A new four year agreement to extend relationship with The European Tour was signed by MasterCard. The agreement defines MasterCard as Official Credit Card and Preferred Method of Payment to The European Tour. In addition MasterCard will also become an Official Sponsor of the 2008 European Ryder Cup Team, when they play at Valhalla Golf Club, Louisville, Kentucky, this September and an Official Sponsor of The 2010 Ryder Cup which will be played at The Celtic Manor Resort, Newport, South Wales.

The new agreement is in line with MasterCard's commitment to sponsor several European Tour events in key strategic markets, including the Dubai Desert Classic (2009 and 2010), the Johnnie Walker Classic (Delhi 2008, Perth 2009 and China 2010) and the SAS Masters (Sweden 2008).

"This agreement further enhances the already strong association between MasterCard and The European Tour and establishes MasterCard's position as one of the leading global financial services sponsors in golf, as well as providing strategic sponsorship support of several European Tour events in key markets. MasterCard will assist The European Tour in developing and implementing new consumer initiatives designed to enhance the spectator experience, drive traffic to our events and, in turn, increase card usage," said George O'Grady, Chief Executive of The European Tour.