Leipzig GC'07: SCEE Becomes FIFA Interactive World Cup Sponsor News

In a change of sponsors reminiscent of the Milk/Coca-Cola/Carling Cup, Sony Computer Entertainment Europe today announced its partnership with EA and FIFA for the FIFA Interactive World Cup.

Previously held in conjunction with Microsoft and Xbox 360, the changeover means PlayStation3 owners can now take to the challenge, competing on FIFA 08 with other players across the globe. Redesigned to capture the challenge of a season, the FIFA Interactive World Cup 2008 kicks off in early 2008 culminating in the Grand Final held at Berlin's Sony Centre in May 2008.

Players need to compete at any one of 20 physical FIWC 08 qualifier events or online via the PlayStation Network, with the winning finalist crowned at the FIFA World Player Gala and a prize of $20,000. Further details and registration can be found at - www.fifa.com/FIWC.

"To be associated with the world's leading games publisher, EA, and one of the most respected organizations in the world, FIFA, is very exciting for us," said Simon Rutter, VP Sales & Marketing for SCEE. "With the added realism that PS3 brings to FIFA 08, we have every belief that now is the time to truly make an impact with the FIFA Interactive World Cup, We're looking forward to PS3 fans helping to make the tournament every bit as iconic for gamers as the real FIFA World Cup is for football fans."

Matt Bilbey, Senior Director, Sports Marketing, EA said "The FIFA Interactive World Cup has become a firm fixture in the diaries of many football fans and gamers around the world and we'll be there to bring them a season full of great competition with FIFA 08 on the PlayStation 3. With FIFA 08, EA Sports is delivering the sensations of being on the real FIFA World Cup football pitch, so football gamers in every geography better start practicing!"

"The FIFA Interactive World Cup is an excellent platform to introduce gamers to the football community. This year the show continues with the 4th edition of the FIFA Interactive World Cup which enables people to enjoy football on a unique playing field. With the extended event period matching the European league system, we have made yet another big step towards establishing the FIFA Interactive World Cup as the world's leading football gaming competition just like the FIFA World Cup is for real football", says FIFA Executive-Member Chuck Blazer.