The joint Ireland and Scotland Euro 2008 bid is set to receive a boost after international drinks giant Diageo became its latest sponsor.
The company are the owners of Guinness and Bell's whisky distilleries.
The sponsorship has been welcomed by the Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern, who said: "The joint Scotland and Ireland Bid for Euro 2008 keeps going from strength to strength.
"The full support of the private sector is a strong element of the bid and we are delighted that Diageo has committed their support to our Euro 2008 bid.
READ MORE
"With their strong association with both Scotland and Ireland this partnership is an obvious fit.
"We are delighted that they have joined the bid."