US footwear and apparel manufacturer Vans has signed on as the presenting sponsor of the 2019 World Surfing Games.
The agreement with the International Surfing Association marks the first time that Vans will be associated with the Games, which this year take place in Miyazaki, Japan from September 7-15.
The 2019 World Surfing Games will serve as a qualifying event for surfing’s debut at the summer Olympic Games, awarding Tokyo 2020 slots on a continental basis to the top finishing eligible men and women from Asia, Africa, Europe, and Oceania. The Americas’ qualification slots will be determined at the ongoing Pan American Games in Lima, Peru.
With the event branding designed by renowned Japanese artist, Yusuke Hanai, the 2019 World Surfing Games will also feature a two-day Surf Festival during the opening weekend of the event, showcasing the culture, food, music and lifestyle of surfing in Japan.
Bobby Gascon, Vans director, global marketing of action sports, said: “This is an exciting time for surfing world-wide, and Vans salutes ISA for championing diversity as part of their global vision.
“We’re excited to support the world’s surfing elite in their Olympic pursuits and look forward to partnering with the ISA in furthering the momentum of surfing culture on the world stage and beyond.”