The National Bank Cup presented by IGA: A history of passion and commitment
The National Bank Cup presented by IGA, formerly known as the Bell Challenge, was inaugurated in 1993. Initially owned by Tennis Canada and sanctioned by the WTA, the tournament is an international sporting event. Since year one, the tournament has been very successful. Between 1996 and 2004, the tournament was organized by motivated business people in Quebec City and overseen by Tennis Canada. In 2004, several foreign investors were interested in buying the tournament until Jacques Tanguay took the necessary means for it to remain in Quebec. The following year, the National Bank Cup presented by IGA was named the best tournament of its category at the WTA Stars for Stars Gala in Miami, Florida.
In 2014, Quebecor obtained the rights to the tournament by purchasing the Remparts. National Bank also became the new title sponsor and the tournament’s name was changed to National Bank Cup. Videotron also became the presenting sponsor in 2015. The event has been supported by many loyal partners from the start.
In 2016, Québecor returned the rights to Tennis Canada, its original owner. Tennis Canada wanted to work with the knowledgeable team already in place in Quebec which has made the event a success in the past.
Now celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2017, the tournament continues to grow and solidify its reputation on the professional circuit. It is considered to be one of the most prestigious sporting events in Canada as the biggest international indoor women’s tennis tournament in the country.