Columbus Crew SC have announced a partnership deal with carmaker Audi of America, which will see Columbus-based Audi dealers named as official luxury automobile partners of the club, reports, www.sportspromedia.com/

The deal also includes naming rights for the VIP terrace at the Crew's Mapfre Stadium, which will now be known as the Audi Terrace, and where Audi will have significant branding presence.

Audi are taking advantage of the ever-increasing popularity of soccer in America, having already signed a deal back in March with the MLS itself. This is its first major deal with one of the league's constituent clubs.

Andrea Santilli, marketing manager for Audi in the midwest, said: "Audi remains committed to soccer and raising the profile of the game in the United States.

"As a major supporter of the sport globally and the official automotive partner of MLS, we're looking forward to further expanding this presence through our partnership here in Columbus, and our Columbus Audi Dealers have been critical in making this happen."