Allianz has today announced a partnership with Paralympic bronze medallist Orla Comerford as its new brand ambassador. This follows the brand’s becoming the Top Sponsor of Paralympics Ireland and the Olympic Federation of Ireland.
Allianz has partnered with Paralympics Ireland since 2006 and the Olympic Federation of Ireland since 2021.
They have also been the standalone Irish supporter of both the Olympic and Paralympic Movements at both global and local levels.
Today’s partnership announcement reinforces Allianz’s commitment to championing athletes and fostering inclusion in sport.
Orla Comerford has been a prominent figure in Irish para athletics since her teenage years.
Diagnosed with Stargardt, a condition that causes progressive vision loss, Orla took up athletics at a young age and quickly excelled on the track. She made her international debut at the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, where she reached the final of the 100m (T13) at just 18 years old.
Since then, she has competed at the highest level – representing Ireland at the 2017 and 2019 World Para Athletics Championships, the 2018 European Championships where she took home bronze in both the 100m and 200m (T13), Tokyo 2020 as well as the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, where she secured the bronze medal in the 100m (T13).
“Allianz has steadfastly supported para sport, and I am very excited to join them as a brand ambassador,” said Comerford.
“Their commitment to driving inclusion and ensuring that every young athlete has the opportunity to excel, whatever their ability, is something that deeply resonates with me. I hope to use my platform to encourage the next generation of athletes to embrace sport, push their limits, and follow their dreams.”
“Orla embodies the resilience, dedication and excellence that define the spirit of sport,” added John Ryan, Allianz Chief Underwriting Officer.
“Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of inclusivity in athletics.”
“We are so proud to welcome her into the Allianz ambassador family. As a decorated athlete, as well as an accomplished artist, Orla is an inspiration to people of all ages and we are very excited to support her journey on and off the track.”
As brand ambassador, Orla will work with Allianz to support initiatives that promote para sport, inclusion and youth engagement – including the Allianz NextGen programme, which aims to inspire young people with disabilities to participate in sport and pursue their athletic dreams.
Further Reading for Sport for Business members:
Check out Sport for Business coverage of Ambassadors
SPORT FOR BUSINESS PERSPECTIVE
As top sponsor of the Olympic Federation of Ireland and Paralympics Ireland, Allianz will support Team Ireland up to and throughout Los Angeles 2028. From the Allianz Dare to Believe Programme to the Allianz NextGen Programme, they are empowering athletes of all backgrounds to achieve their full potential.
WHAT’S UP NEXT?
We will shortly be announcing the details of this year’s ever popular Sport for Business Sport for Social Good event in partnership with Allianz.
MEMBERSHIP AND EVENTS
Allianz, Paralympics Ireland and the Olympic Federation of Ireland are among the 300+ members of the Sport for Business community that includes all of the leading sports and sponsors, as well as commercial and state agencies, individuals interested by our world and an increasing number from beyond these shores taking a keen interest in Ireland.
Find out more about becoming a member today.
Get the full benefit of a Sport for Business membership by joining us at one of our upcoming events, where sporting and business leadership come together.
Or sign up for our twice-daily bulletins to get a flavour of the material we cover.
Sign up for our News Bulletins here.
