A partnership dating back 25 years may be about to end, as the ASB Classic - Auckland's renowned tennis tournament - risks losing its naming rights partner before the return of the tournament in January.
Newshub can reveal ASB Bank is considering taking a political stance and removing its brand from the next event, if Russian and Belarussian players are allowed to take to the court, leaving new tournament director Nicolas Lamperin in a tough position.
If it was to withdraw, the tournament would be renamed the Auckland Classic, with ASB to use its signage to promote messages of peace for wartorn Ukraine.
That means the bank wouldn't completely pull their sponsorship, only the naming.
"There are currently no Russian or Belarusian players confirmed or under negotiation to play at the ASB Classic," the bank said.
"After a two-year hiatus due to COVID, we would very much like to see a successful ASB Classic go ahead in 2023.
"We are working with tournament organisers to ensure we can continue to support the event, while still aligning with our values as a company."
Those close to the situation believe it would be a massive call from both sponsors and organisers, although nothing is yet in concrete.
Unfortunately for Lamperin, it's not as simple as saying 'no' to players.
In June, Lamperin told Newshub he wouldn't approach Russian or Belarusian players to compete at the tournament, but stopped short of saying they would be banned from participating.
Respective men's and women's global governing bodies - the ATP and WTA - won't allow that, meaning the ASB Classic could have its official tournament status revoked.
Earlier this year, the prestigious Wimbledon Grand Slam was punished for banning Russian and Belarusian players by having its ranking points stripped, which would also apply to the ASB Classic, if it were go down the same path.
Lamperin is eager to avoid that situation, which he believes would deter players from coming to Auckland.
Newshub understands both parties hope for a resolution in the coming weeks.
