The strength of Queensland's largest motorsport event, now known as SuperGP following the switch from IndyCar to A1 Grand Prix, has been underlined by the announcement of a new three-year naming rights partnership with the Nitro energy drink brand.

Nitro is an Australian-owned brand with national headquarters on the Gold Coast, and MD Matt Nielsen admits that its desire to become a 'major national and international brand' has driven its decision to become involved with the A1GP event which will headline the 19th annual Surfers Paradise event.

“I think, like the Nitro SuperGP, our products are for everyone - and being a proud Queensland and Australian-based company, we have had our eye on a major event to be associated with for a long time,” Nielsen said, “For this opportunity to present itself at this stage of our company's growth is fantastic for everyone involved and we look forward to accelerating our brand's position and our sales through a positive and rewarding relationship.

“The slogan we have associated with Nitro Energy Drinks is 'Go hard or go home' and, in a lot of respects, that is a perfect fit for one of the world's most exciting and entertainment-packed events which really does test a fan's stamina. That will be made a little easier with a can of Nitro Energy Drink or two!”

The 2009 Nitro SuperGP, to be held over the weekend of 22-25 October, will stage one of the early 2009-10 A1GP rounds and form the eleventh stop on the V8 Supercar Championship schedule. The two series will co-headline the four-day festival.

''I am very pleased to welcome Nitro Energy Drink onboard as the naming rights partner in what is the start of a new era for the event,” said SuperGP chairman Terry Mackenroth.

“The SuperGP is considered one of the world's best street races and to secure Nitro Energy Drink as the new naming rights partner for a three-year period further reinforces its strength and appeal. I believe the addition of a dynamic and proactive naming rights partner in Nitro Energy Drink and their ability to leverage the event on a national stage, will provide enormous opportunities for both parties.”