The internet has been abuzz with the latest ad campaign featuring some of the biggest sporting champions Australia has ever seen. The video showcases a star-studded cast of 20 Aussie icons, including Ash Barty, John Aloisi, and Damien Oliver, as they gather to promote Kia’s new utility vehicle.
The ad, which was filmed over three days at a pub in Bondi Junction, Sydney, has been generating attention since its debut during the NRL’s Las Vegas double-header on Sunday. It’s no surprise that the gathering of these A-list sporting legends turned heads when they were spotted coming and going from the pub earlier in the year.
The premise of the ad is simple yet captivating—bringing together Aussie legends to debate over the naming of Kia’s new product. Each champion presents their case for what the utility vehicle should be called, with former Aussie Test captain Steve Waugh leading the charge with the suggestion of “Kia Tugger,” a nod to his iconic nickname.
The banter continues with names like “Kia Buddy” from Australian rules legend Lance Franklin, and “Kia Aloisi” from Socceroos legend John Aloisi. Even the Matildas’ cult hero Mackenzie Arnold joins in with the suggestion of “Kia Macka.”
But the highlight of the ad is undoubtedly Ash Barty’s appearance. The tennis champion, known for her on-court prowess, flexes her acting skills as she casually weighs in with “It’s like a big silver trophy.” Barty, who holds the Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup and the Wimbledon Venus Rosewater Dish, brings a touch of charm to the ad with her deadpan delivery.
Dylan Alcott, Broncos legends Darren Lockyer and Allan Langer, and many others also make animated cameos, adding to the light-hearted and entertaining nature of the ad.
Dean Norbiato, Kia Australia General Manager of Marketing, explained that the inspiration for the advert stemmed from the Aussie tradition of everyone having a nickname. “We were looking for a unique and quintessentially Aussie way to launch Kia’s most Australian product ever – our utility vehicle – and what better way than to bring together our country’s most iconic themes – sporting heroes, nicknames and an old-fashioned Aussie watering hole,” Norbiato said.
Amidst the playful banter and camaraderie, the ad cleverly aligns Kia’s new product with the spirit of Australian sportsmanship and the larger-than-life personalities that have captured the nation’s heart.
As viewers fans across the country laugh and debate over the ad, it’s clear that this tongue-in-cheek campaign has hit the mark, serving as a testament to the enduring appeal of Aussie legends and the cultural fabric of nicknames and camaraderie.