Allianz and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) have today announced a multi-year pan-regional partnership, reports www.fcbusiness.co.uk

The exclusive category sponsorship extends and leverages Allianz's global football heritage to connect more deeply with its customers in key Asian markets, while significantly expanding its brand presence in the growth region.

Encompassing Asia's most important club tournaments - including the AFC Champions League, the AFC Cup, as well as the AFC Futsal Club Championships - the partnership programme reaches a huge audience base across stadiums, television and on diverse social and digital platforms.

"We are very proud to be working with the AFC to support Asian football," said Lars Heibutzki, Chief Distribution Officer for Asia, Allianz.

"This partnership exemplifies the distinct Allianz values of innovation, courage and excellence, and brings them to life by celebrating our footballers, fans and communities in the region."

Paul Groves, Head of Market Management for Asia, Allianz, added: "As the most popular sport in the world, football continues to reach record heights every year, and nowhere more so than in the dynamic Asia region.

"This partnership provides Allianz with a unique platform to support the huge segments of Asian society, for whom football is a passion and an essential part of life.

"We see ourselves supporting the games both at the top championship levels, as well as in nurturing Asia's next-generation talent with our signature youth programmes."