The agreement was reached by the FAW-Volkswagen sales company, Beijing Malon Sports and the ISU.

"The ISU is very pleased with this new partnership and we very much look forward to working with our new title sponsor FAW-VW Audi," said Jan Dijkema, ISU President.

"Audi is synonym of performance and quality, and FAW-VW Audi's decision to become an ISU sponsor is a recognition of the attractiveness of short track speed skating and of the ISU World Cup series.

"We strongly believe that the relationship will be mutually beneficial.

"FAW-VW Audi's sponsorship will start with the all-important short track speed skating Olympic qualifying events which is a perfect timing for both parties."

The World Cup season will begin in Hungarian capital Budapest with the opening event taking place from September 28 to October 1, before Dordrecht in The Netherlands holds competition between October 5 and 8.

The penultimate round will take place in Chinese city Shanghai from November 9 to 12, with South Korean capital Seoul staging the final event from November 16 to 19.

Skaters will be hoping to secure the right to return to South Korea at the Olympic Games, which will take place in Pyeongchang from February 9 to 25.

The agreement sees Audi continue their support of winter sport, with the car manufacturer also sponsoring the International Ski Federation (FIS) World Cup and Nordic Skiing World Cup.

"Audi has always been a strong supporter of winter sports and is extending its commitment to a new level," an Audi spokesperson said.

"To promote short track speed skating and to popularise its practice, FAW-VW Audi officially reached a strategic cooperation with the International Skating Union and has become the title sponsor of the Audi ISU World Cup Short Track Speed Skating 2017/18.

"The combination of ISU sports and artistic charm align with the brand values of Audi progressiveness, sophistication and sportiness."

Audi have stated they aim to contribute to the success of short track speed skating and intend to play an important role by providing experience, professionalism and vision to develop the World Cup.