A silver sponsor, they will assist transporting teams and officials to Western Australia and promote Perth 2011 at home and abroad.

"We are delighted to have an iconic brand like Qantas join the sponsorship family," said Perth 2011 director of commercial operations Darren Beazley.

"Qantas is widely regarded as the world's leading long distance airline and one of the strongest brands in Australia.

"In an event where more than 5,000 athletes and officials will travel to Australia from overseas, an alignment with Qantas was an obvious partnership.

"Securing Qantas as a silver level sponsor is an enormous vote of confidence in the World Championships by the commercial sector and we hope to maintain this momentum in securing more commercial supporters as we lead into the Perth International Regatta."

Qantas regional general manager for Western Australia and the Northern Territory, Ian Gay, said: "Qantas believes the championships will be a great event for Perth and for Western Australia.

"We are delighted to be involved and working closely with the team.

"Not only will Western Australians be able to enjoy the party in Fremantle, but all the competitors, family and friends will have a good reason to visit Western Australia and see all we have to offer.

"The dream begins in Perth, the journey begins with Qantas."

Qantas has a long history of supporting sporting events in Australia such as the AFL, the National Rugby League and the Australian Olympic Committee.


Related stories
November 2010: Seven world number ones confirm their place at Perth sailing regatta
October 2010: Emerging Nations bring Olympic class sailing to Perth
October 2010: Sailors from emerging nations set to be tested to their limit
June 2009: Perth launches branding for 2011 World Championships
November 2007: Perth to host 2011 World Sailing Championships