FISU, Qiaodan proudly unveil new two-year deal

July 29 marked an important milestone for FISU in China. Not only was it officially Day 1 of the long-awaited Chengdu FISU World University Games after a thrilling opening ceremony the night before, but also the start of a new key partnership with long-time China-based sponsor, supplier, and partner Qiaodan.

In the presence of Ni Zhennian, Vice Chairman of Qiaodan Sports, a new two-year agreement was signed by Leonz Eder, Acting President of the International University Sports Federation.

“FISU is very happy and very proud that Qiaodan is renewing the agreement with us. Of course, renewing the contract here in China, in the company’s home country, has a special meaning, I believe not only for FISU but especially for Qiaodan,” said President Eder.

“It’s been Qiaodan’s pleasure to work with FISU for the last decade, and it’s with great joy that we are pursuing this partnership,” added Vice Chairman Ni.

The bond between the Chinese clothing brand and FISU is indeed strong, for the partnership between the two organizations started in 2016. Since then, Qiaodan has become the official provider of FISU Family uniforms, designing sets for all FISU events, sport, and non-sport.

“For many years already, Qiaodan has been a very faithful partner and they support us with fantastic clothing”, thanked President Eder. “We are more than happy that in these difficult times after the pandemic, they were ready to continue to support us.

“It also means that they put a lot of energy in the students and they believe in our values. It’s a win-win for FISU and for Qiaodan.”

Confirming this new deal in Chengdu also presented strategic interests for Qiaodan.

“I am thrilled to be here, not only because it is mine and Qiaodan’s home country, but also because almost 80 per cent of our clientele is from China, so it is good to show ourselves and welcome such a partner event here in Chengdu”, said Vice Chairman Ni.

Marketing interest is one thing, but a heartwarming human interest story also took place in Chengdu, for Mr. Ni was accompanied by his daughter Ni Peng, a former FISU volunteer during three editions of the Summer Games, including Taipei 2017.

“I feel like I committed a betrayal,” she said with a laugh about coming back to a FISU event after all these years. “It is very good to see familiar faces, for the bond I have with FISU is stronger than what I ever imagined.”

Both members of the Ni family also caught a glimpse of athletes at work on Saturday at Chengdu Shooting Sport School, where Vice Chairman Ni handed the medals following the women’s shooting 10m Air Pistol event.

“Ideally, the Qiaodan-FISU partnership would last forever!” he concluded with a large smile on his face.

Written by Louis Gilles, FISU Young Reporter