Nissan has signed a sponsorship agreement with organizers of the Orange Africa Cup of Nations to be hosted in South Africa in 2013 and in Morocco in 2015. The sponsorship package makes Nissan the “Official Automotive Partner” of both events. In a statement, Nissan said the sponsorship arrangement comes at a time when “Africa is a focal destination for investors, and for more than 50 years Nissan Motor Company, one of the world’s leading automotive manufacturers, has developed a growing sales presence across the continent, and manufacturing plants in South Africa and Egypt.” “Nissan plans to expand its network and increase its market share across key markets in Sub Sahara Africa, to become a continental leader. “Nissan’s association with Afcon, which attracts a large following throughout the continent, provides a powerful platform to build our brand,” said Mike Whitfield, Managing Director of Nissan South Africa. “As the automotive partner of the 2013 and 2015 events, we are particularly pleased to be involved in football, a sport that touches the heart of many, and reaches across the continent”, said Whitfield. He added that Nissan’s brand values campaign “Innovation that Excites”, is aimed at inspiring a Nissan following through its diverse vehicle range. This has parallels with soccer, a sport infused with excitement, drawing supporters who are attracted by the skill and performance of its diverse players.