Ladbrokes Lengthens Relationship with MRC

The British-based betting and gambling company, and world leader in online betting and gaming, Ladbrokes, has announced that its partnership with Australia's Melbourne Racing Cup (MRC) has been extended. Ladbrokes became the official corporate bookmaker and sponsor of the race back in October of 2015, replacing William Hill. The extension will include naming rights for various horse races. More specifically, Ladbrokes will take over the naming rights of Caulfield Guineas Day, in addition to the AUS$1m Group 1 classic thoroughbred race. While some things are changing, other things are remaining the same, such as Sandown Racecourse continuing to be named, Ladbrokes Park. It is expected that 1,000 of the UK bookmaker's customers will fill up the Caulfield Racecourse on October 8th, for Guineas Day. Ladbrokes will also remain in affiliation with Victoria's sole Group 1 race, in addition to Group 1 C.F. Orr Stakes, the $1.5m Group 1 Blue Diamond Stakes, and a portfolio of 19 group and listed races run at the MRC's three tracks. According to CEO of Melbourne Racing Cup, Brodie Arnhold, “Since our relationship formally began not even a year ago, Ladbrokes have proven to be a fantastic partner for the club, which we're thrilled they will continue to be.” Arnhold added, “The commercial investment is obviously incredibly valuable to an organisation like ours, but the willingness to innovate together and integrate into various areas of our business outside of race naming rights shows that Ladbrokes has a great care and passion for the sport of racing and its sustainability. I once again thank Ladbrokes for their ongoing support; we look forward to continuing to work alongside them.” Furthermore, head of media for Ladbrokes Australia, Roger Oldridge, commented “This is a significant investment in the Melbourne Racing Club and the industry as a whole and a commitment to both which we see as vital for the long term sustainability of all parties. We're not in the business of divulging exact figures, whether it is specific punters' bets or a deal of this magnitude between two very strong organisations, suffice to say we are heavily invested in the MRC and in racing.”