NTT, one of the largest ICT (information and communications technology) companies, will serve as the ITU’s exclusive communications and systems integration partner.

As part of the global deal, NTT, which is comprised of a select group of technology companies, will acquire rights at various triathlon events in Japan, Asia and worldwide.

"NTT’s proven history of delivering value to clients to the highest standards is well aligned with ITU’s core values," said ITU President and International Olympic Committee member, Marisol Casado.

"NTT’s sponsorship of ITU and the ITU World Triathlon Series will serve us well in our mission to make triathlon accessible to everyone by providing state-of-the-art technological services to fans and spectators.

"Triathletes and triathlon fans are tech-savvy early adapters, and the NTT Group technology platforms will allow ITU to develop some exciting products and services for the future."

Brokered jointly by the ITU and the Japan Triathlon Union, the deal will see NTT Group showcase its products and services to a global audience of sport fans including the development of a smartphone app for the Japanese market.

"Since 1990, NTT Group has been supporting triathlon events organised throughout Japan," said Shinji Kume, general manager of NTT public relations.

"We hail this occasion with great pleasure to become a global partner of ITU.

"It is a wonderful opportunity for us to contribute to the further development of triathlon on the global stage and to raise awareness of NTT Group brands in international markets by offering ICT technologies."

NTT Group will also provide technology services for select events in Para-triathlon, which is set to make its debut at this year’s Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. 

As a part of the agreement, Dimension Data - a subsidiary of the NTT Group - will supply extended services and technology at a number of ITU events, which will be similar to those that have been provided at the Tour de France.

It is hoped the inclusion of live speed and positioning data will further enhance the onsite and online spectator experience.

NTT will be an official partner of the 2016 ITU Long Distance Triathlon World Championships, which is scheduled to take place in the US State of Oklahoma on September 24 and 25.

In 2015, the NTT Group were appointed as the first Gold Partner of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games to serve as the official telecommunications services partner of the Organising Committee.

The ITU is striving to have the non-Olympic discipline of mixed relay triathlon added to the Tokyo 2020 programme.