Son'y confirmed today that they would not be picking up the option to extend their initial $3 million deal for another two years after initially signing up with the club in 2007.

Managing director Martin McManus said the current financial crisis both in New Zealand and worldwide had caused the company to review its spoonsorship deals and cutback on expenditure.

"With our contract coming up for renewal we reviewed our sponsorship spend, and have had to make the decision not to continue past 2009," he said.

Phoenix CEO Tony Pignata thanked the global giant for its support in getting Phoenix established and added: "Sony has helped significantly in building the profile of the Phoenix and of football in New Zealand and we have enjoyed the two years together."