Global trade enabler and European Tour partner, DP World, has confirmed the signing of golf legend Ian Poulter as the brand’s first Global Ambassador.

DP World’s partnership with the European Tour and ten-year flagship association with the DP World Tour Championship has helped the company to connect in a meaningful way with partners and customers in a variety of locations around the world. DP World is also a Premier Partner of the Honma Hong Kong Open, Official Sponsor of the Hero Indian Openand a Partner of the BMW PGA Championship.

“This is an incredibly exciting time for DP World as we continue to push new boundaries in business and golf around the world. Ian Poulter is widely credited with inspiring a younger generation of European players to take up the game. Working hand in hand with the golf icon will enable DP World to create truly memorable experiences for our key stakeholders globally and UAE’s next generation of golfers,” said Daniel Van Otterdijk, SVP Group Communications.

Poulter commented: “I am delighted to be representing DP World and have no doubt that this partnership will be fruitful.  DP World’s values and passion associated with the innovation in the game of golf and using this innovation to connect with the next generation aligns perfectly with my own dreams and enthusiasm.  I am looking forward to playing an integral role in shaping the future of golf.”

A talismanic figure in Europe, the iconic golfer boasts ten European Tour, two WGC, and one other PGA Tour victory. The PGA Tour victory came in 2018 at the Houston Open which qualified him for The Masters 2018. Poulter went on to qualify for this year’s Masters as well where he tied an excellent 12^thposition. Furthermore, Poulter’s Ryder Cup record has cemented his reputation as a hero in European golf.

This ambassadorial partnership will create for DP World an extremely useful platform not only to communicate its truly global business operations, but notably their commitment to enabling smart trade across the world through data driven logistics services, innovation and education.  Supporting grassroots development in sport as well as creating opportunities for all abilities throughout life is a paramount ambition for the organisation, echoing the longstanding work undertaken by Poulter who works with two charities supporting children.

“Our grassroots initiative is part of DP World’s ongoing commitment to growing the game of golf in the region and opening-up the sport to more young people. Our partnership with European Tour has enabled us to achieve this ambition and we are looking forward to work with Poulter to support young players who could become future stars of the game in the Emirates,” said Daniel Van Otterdijk.

Poulter will carry the DP World logo on the left sleeve of his clothing at all tournaments and his role as a global ambassador will include commitment to play, coach and attend major championships and Pro-Ams as well as working with Emirates Golf Federation to coach young stars and help shape the future of golf in the region.

The UAE continues to be a hot bed for global golf and through DP World’s strong partnership with the European Tour and golfing legend, Ian Poulter, the game will continue to see significant growth especially in the UAE; growth in the number of fans, growth in sports tourism and growth in the number of Emirati children taking up the game.