The partnership between Dorna Sports and AirAsia has been renewed for the next two years, thanks to the strong and successful collaboration the two companies have enjoyed since 2010. The renewed agreement places the airline in the position of title sponsor for the Japanese GP in 2012 and 2013, and the Australian GP in 2012 with an option for the title sponsorship of the same GP in the 2013 campaign. AirAsia and its CEO, Tony Fernandes, are considered ambassadors of MotoGP™ in Asia, and its title sponsorship of the Japanese and Australian Grands Prix will help to further strengthen its presence in two very important markets for the growing company, a profile which continues to increase in Australia with the recent additional Sydney route. Pau Serracanta, Managing Director Commercial Area within Dorna, said of the partnership: “I am very pleased with this new agreement we have signed with AirAsia, appointing them as title sponsor for the Japan and Australia GPs for the next two years. This airline has been named the best low cost airline for the past two years thanks to the excellent service it offers to thousands of passengers. Most importantly, this alliance allows them a presence in two very important markets for them; in Australia, where they have been offering their services for some time, and in Japan, where they have recently begun operations. I hope this relationship continues to be as successful as it has been to date, as we are extremely satisfied with the results the partnership has brought.” CEO of AirAsia, Tony Fernandes, had this to say of the contract signing: “Our close relationship with MotoGP is further strengthened through the signing of this agreement. Our airline believes in MotoGP because it allows us to expand our brand awareness and also helps us reach a young audience who are going to use our broad range of services. Our involvement in the MotoGP World Championship increases every year, as AirAsia has also been involved in the sponsorship of teams and riders, something which started in 2009 with Zulfahmi Khairuddin and continues to this day. This involvement demonstrates our belief in motorcycle racing, a thrilling sport with millions of fans around the world.”