SMP Europe-sponsored GB team seals Ice Hockey Championships victory

SMP Europe-sponsored Great Britain team has sealed promotion into the top-level of the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) Ice Hockey World Championships for next season, after a dramatic win over Italy in the final game of the Division I Group A match.

In a tough battle on the ice, Italy tied the game three times before Team GB clinched a five-three winner in another memorable victory. Unbeaten throughout the tournament, Brett Perlini and Cade Neilson both scored twice, and Mike Hammond scored as well as having two crucial assists, as GB held off Italy to claim the Division I gold medal.

Held on home ice at Motorpoint Arena Nottingham, Great Britain, Italy, Lithuania, Korea, Poland and Romania battled it out on the ice for promotion, with GB and Poland advancing into the top division of the IIHF Ice Hockey World Championships to go on to compete in 2024 in Czechia.

With its headquarters in Nottingham, SMP Europe’s support for the Great Britain team in the event showcases its commitment to the local community and gives the brand the opportunity to promote its engineering expertise in engine management and ignition products to a wider audience.

The company boasted advertising boards around the ice rink, featuring its SMP Europe, Intermotor, Lemark and Lucas brands, plus full branding on the two Zamboni’s for ice resurfacing. The company also provided support to the championship through tournament volunteers.

SMP Europe Managing Director, Ross Toomey, comments: “The championships were amazing and it was great to host it at our home in Nottingham. SMP Europe’s involvement in the event has been evident throughout and will have attracted a global audience through TV and digital media.”