Mazda Australia and North Melbourne will continue to celebrate one of the longest standing partnerships in Australian sport, extending their support until at least the end of 2022.

Signing on as sole major sponsor in the premiership year of 1999, Mazda’s partnership spans two decades, 458 home-and-away matches and 20 finals.

“Mazda has been an integral part of our club for more than two decades and we are thrilled to have agreed to an additional three years,” North managing director & CEO Carl Dilena said.

“The partnership has continued to flourish, which has been a testament to our shared values and passion for innovation.”

Last year, Mazda extended its support to the club’s AFLW team, the North Melbourne Tasmanian Kangaroos, also signing on as sole major sponsor.

“Mazda has been a fantastic supporter of our club which was highlighted by the extension to our inaugural AFLW side last year,” Dilena said.

“As we celebrate our 150th year, we reflect on Mazda’s impact and contribution, which has been profound and significant.

“Mazda’s support cannot be underestimated, and is greatly appreciated by the players, staff and supporters.”

Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi said it was an easy decision to re-commit to North.

“Mazda is immensely proud of its long-standing partnership with North, and we’re pleased to extend our support for a further three years,” Bhindi said.

“Much has been achieved in our two-decade-long sponsorship and we look forward to the promising years ahead.”

In celebration of Mazda’s contract extension and its long-term support of North, club legend Brent ‘Boomer’ Harvey took to the road in the Mazda CX-9 with 2019 Rising Star nominees Cameron Zurhaar, Tarryn Thomas and Nick Larkey.