Hyundai is in the midst of celebration of the World Cup as an official sponsor. Ten days into the FIFA World Cup 2010, the commitment of Hyundai to the games is no more evident than in their website at www.fifaworldcup.hyundai.com.

The site, dedicated to the tournament in South Africa, is a culmination of interaction, news, music, games, and match schedules and scores. The host throughout this experience is Zakumi, the 2010 World Cup mascot, a South African leopard. You can take free kicks at some of the superstars of the game or you can check on the progress or your favorite football team. Viewers can also sign electronic Goodwill Balls showing their support for the games and their personal team.

Hyundai is also taking up social causes —“One Million Dream Balls for Africa” is a charity Hyundai is heavily engaged in. Viewers of the World cup site can watch the progress as the car manufacturer sends one soccer ball for every car sold to children of Africa. The program gives hope to those who dream of playing the sport.

The advertising campaign, created by Innocean, is accented with a pair of television commercials, print ads, and the use of social networking with Facebook and YouTube. The focus for all of the spots is the loyalty of fans for football and Hyundai. The history and tradition of the sport and vehicle are drawn in comparison using loyalty and perfection as pillars of each.

Hyundai has plans for a tour of Africa with a visit to six nations from July 17th to the 31st. The travels will allow the Korean automotive company an opportunity to focus on the Dream Ball project and hand out footballs, showcase giant Goodwill Balls that carry well-wishing messages from fans throughout the world and show the latest vehicle models. “Africa Road Tour” will be documented by National Geographic Channel to be aired in August or September in Asia and Europe.