Canberra Raiders sponsor Huawei could be excluded from providing equipment for Australia's 5G network over security concerns.GETTY IMAGES
Missing out on Australia's 5G network "would have a substantial effect" on telecom Huawei's business Down Under, but the company will await the Australian government's final decision before deciding how it could affect its sponsorship of National Rugby League side Canberra Raiders, according to David Polkinghorne of the SYDNEY MORNING HERALD. Huawei Corporate Affairs Dir Jeremy Mitchell said that the company's "focus was on working with the Raiders on their new centre of excellence at Braddon, where it will provide telecommunications technology." The Chinese company was reportedly "set to be excluded from providing equipment for the 5G network due to security concerns." Mitchell said that the Australian government is yet to make a final decision and Huawei is "still hopeful of being involved." But he admitted "missing out would be a big blow to its business in Australia" and the company "would need to reassess any sponsorships going forward." Huawei is not only the major sponsor of the Raiders, but also sponsors Australian Football League club Gold Coast Suns and A-League team Wellington Phoenix. Mitchell: "At the moment, the government haven't made any decision on 5G, so we're continuing as business as usual" (SMH, 6/14).
