IBF fears for sponsorship amid crisis

IBF fears for sponsorship amid crisis

JAKARTA (JP): The International Badminton Federation (IBF)
vice chairman, Justian Suhandinata, has said that he hopes
sponsors will not withdraw from the Thomas and Uber Cups to be
held in Hong Kong in May.

His statement came amid reports that financial difficulties
resulting from the regional economic crisis were forcing some of
the event's backers to contemplate reneging on commitments of
support.

"I hope none of the sponsors, who have signed contracts, will
break their agreements. I hope the three companies -- RCTI, a
privately run TV channel, PT. HM. Sampoerna, a cigarette
manufacturer, and International Management Group (IMG), an events
promoter -- will find a way to overcome their budgetary
problems", Justian said.

However, Antara, quoting a source in PT. HM. Sampoerna, said
the company would definitely be unable to provide the US$ 1
million which it had promised to support the event.

"We'll be very relieved if there is another company willing to
replace our sponsorship of the biennial event," the unnamed
source said.

The IBF is still confident that the event will take place as
planned because some participating countries -- Japan, China and
Chinese Taipei -- have agreed to provide financial support. The
three countries will purchase unsold promotion boards placed
around the courts.

Furthermore, the IBF has said that if the three companies
submit down payments, the federation will make up the shortfall
in promised financial support.

"I think by working together, none of the companies will have
to disregard the contract. That's the most important thing,"
Justian said.

Cup organizers in Hong Kong have also promised to hand over
$100,000 from ticket sales. (yan)