Hockey Club Davos and VAT Expand Strategic Partnership as Davos Arena Becomes VAT Arena
Hockey Club Davos (HCD) and VAT have announced an expanded long-term partnership that marks a significant new chapter in their collaboration. Following a successful relationship during the 2025/26 season, VAT is increasing its commitment to the Swiss ice hockey club by becoming the official naming rights partner of the arena, which will now be known as the VAT Arena beginning with the 2026/27 season.
The strengthened agreement reflects the shared ambition of both organizations to promote excellence, innovation, and sustainable growth while reinforcing their long-standing connection to Swiss sporting success. In addition to securing the naming rights to the arena, VAT will continue as a jersey sponsor of HC Davos’ men’s first team and will also become a jersey sponsor of the HCD Ladies team.
Headquartered in Switzerland’s Rhine Valley in the canton of St. Gallen, VAT is the world’s leading provider of high-end vacuum valve solutions and technologies. The company first joined HC Davos as a co-sponsor of the men’s team during the 2025/26 season, laying the foundation for a partnership built on common values including precision, performance, passion, and excellence.
The expanded collaboration demonstrates the confidence both organizations have developed through their initial partnership. By extending its involvement beyond team sponsorship to include the arena’s naming rights, VAT is significantly increasing its visibility while supporting one of Switzerland’s most historic and successful sports clubs.
Under the new agreement, the arena will proudly carry the VAT name and the company’s distinctive green brand identity. The partnership also reinforces the commitment of both organizations to the continued development of ice hockey in the region, supporting athletes at both the professional and women’s levels while strengthening community engagement around the sport.
VAT Chief Executive Officer Urs Gantner said the expanded partnership reflects the company’s long-term vision and its commitment to supporting Swiss excellence.
“We see our commitment to HC Davos as a long-term partnership that benefits the region and reaches far beyond it,” said Gantner. “By acquiring the naming rights to the Davos ice arena, we underscore our strong connection to Swiss success stories and outstanding achievement.”
He highlighted HC Davos’ remarkable sporting legacy, noting that the club has won 31 Swiss championship titles and captured the prestigious Spengler Cup 17 times since 1921. According to Gantner, these achievements make HC Davos one of the country’s most respected sporting institutions and an ideal partner for VAT’s growing brand presence.
“HC Davos is unquestionably a leader in Swiss sports,” he added. “We are delighted to further increase the visibility of our brand in connection with such a historic and dynamic club.”
HC Davos CEO Marc Gianola welcomed the expanded agreement, emphasizing the importance of trusted corporate partners in supporting the club’s long-term ambitions.
“We are very pleased to continue the successful path we have already embarked on as a club, now with VAT as the naming rights partner of our venue,” Gianola said. “This is only possible because we have strong partners by our side. VAT has been fully committed from the very beginning, and we are proud that they are now strengthening that commitment even further.”
The partnership represents more than a sponsorship agreement. It reflects a shared commitment to investing in the future of Swiss ice hockey while creating lasting value for supporters, players, and the wider community. By extending its support to both the men’s and women’s teams, VAT is helping foster the continued growth and inclusivity of the sport across all levels.
For HC Davos, the agreement provides additional stability and resources that will support the club’s sporting ambitions while enhancing the experience for fans at the newly named VAT Arena. For VAT, the partnership strengthens its association with one of Switzerland’s most iconic sporting organizations, offering greater brand visibility both nationally and internationally.
As the 2026/27 season approaches, the unveiling of the VAT Arena symbolizes the beginning of a new era for both organizations. Built on mutual trust and shared values, the expanded partnership is expected to contribute to the continued success of HC Davos while reinforcing VAT’s position as a company committed to innovation, excellence, and the advancement of Swiss sport.
Source link:https://www.vatgroup.com/
