Fitzgibbon becomes Harvey Norman ambassador in expanded surf deal

Leading Australian retailer Harvey Norman will continue its support for Torquay’s iconic Bells Beach Pro surfing event after extending a sponsorship agreement.

Australian surfing legend Sally Fitzgibbon has also become a brand ambassador for 2022 as the company expands its support of the country’s international sporting events.

Harvey Norman and the World Surf League (WSL) agreed to a new two-year partnership until the end of 2023.

The brand will become naming rights sponsor of two world junior events in addition to its ongoing association with world championship events, including the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach.

Harvey Norman will be integrated into WSL broadcasts through highlight packages, while Australian events will include brand activations and DJ sets to keep fans entertained on and off shore.

Fitzgibbon, a former world number one, 12-time Championship Tour winner and Olympian, said she was honoured to sign on with Harvey Norman for the upcoming season.

“Their efforts have been amazing in supporting Women in sport and Aussie sporting pathways across the board,” she said.

“I’m so proud to be aligned with a brand that puts their heart and soul into evolving and trying to be the best they can be for Australia, just as I have endeavoured to do my whole career.

“I’m so stoked for the exciting set of waves we will ride as a team this year. No doubt it will leave a thriving environment for our sport in its wake.”

WSL Asia-Pacific general manager Andrew Stark thanked Harvey Norman for its ongoing commitment to the sport.

“WSL and Harvey Norman have been in partnership for over two years now and to see the partnership continue to grow is a testament to its true success,” Mr Stark said.

“Harvey Norman has a strong presence at our elite Championship Tour and Challenger Series events and WSL is so proud to see them get behind the grassroots Pro Junior events as part of the partnership extension.”

Harvey Norman CEO Katie Page said the company’s support would help keep the sport accessible to more Australians.

“With all the restrictions of the past two years, Australian surfing has epitomised uninterrupted freedom – surfing in all its forms continues to thrive – from grassroots competition through to the elite level Championship Tour,” she said.

“Harvey Norman identified the importance of our behind-the-scenes role to ensure continuity for the athletes and the fans throughout the pandemic’s disruption.”