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)