The International Cricket Council (ICC) has secured a significant new partnership, bringing a global hospitality leader into the fold of world cricket. The governing body has officially announced Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International's renowned travel program, as its Official Accommodation Partner. This multi-year agreement marks a strategic move to elevate the experience for teams, officials, and fans attending the sport's most prestigious tournaments.
A Strategic Alliance for Global Cricket Events
This partnership is not a minor arrangement but a comprehensive collaboration designed to span several years. It grants Marriott Bonvoy exclusive rights as the ICC's accommodation provider across a glittering roster of men's, women's, and under-19 international events. The deal is set to cover some of the most-watched spectacles in the sporting calendar, ensuring a seamless and premium hospitality experience for all key stakeholders involved in these global gatherings.
The partnership will be activated at the upcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024, co-hosted by the West Indies and the United States. Following this, Marriott Bonvoy's services will extend to other major tournaments, including the highly anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan, the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026, and the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka. This long-term vision underscores a shared commitment to quality and scale.
Enhancing the Experience for Teams and Fans Alike
The core of this alliance focuses on delivering superior service. Marriott Bonvoy will be responsible for managing accommodation logistics for players, match officials, and ICC staff during these events. This ensures that the athletes and officials at the heart of the game can focus on performance, backed by reliable and comfortable lodging arrangements.
Beyond the playing contingent, the partnership promises tangible benefits for cricket enthusiasts worldwide. Members of the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program will gain access to exclusive cricket-related experiences, promotions, and offers. This initiative is aimed at deepening fan engagement, rewarding loyal customers, and integrating the passion for cricket with the perks of global travel.
Leadership Perspectives on the Landmark Deal
Executives from both organizations have expressed strong optimism about the collaboration's potential. Brad Biddle, Vice President of Global Sponsorships at Marriott International, highlighted the synergy between the two brands. He stated that partnering with a global sports powerhouse like the ICC allows Marriott Bonvoy to connect with millions of cricket fans, offering them unmatched hospitality during the sport's biggest moments.
Echoing this sentiment, ICC Chief Commercial Officer, Anurag Dahiya, emphasized the importance of a reliable and high-quality accommodation partner for the smooth execution of world-class events. He noted that Marriott International's vast global portfolio and expertise make it an ideal fit for the ICC's needs, ensuring comfort and convenience for everyone from athletes to traveling fans. This deal, he suggested, is a key piece in the ICC's puzzle to continuously improve its event delivery.
This partnership between the ICC and Marriott Bonvoy represents a fusion of sporting excellence and hospitality expertise. It sets a new standard for how major sports governing bodies can collaborate with industry leaders to enhance every facet of a global event, from the locker room to the living room of fans planning their tournament journey.
