France & Nike Extend Kit Deal
Just under an hour ago, the French Football Federation officially announced that it had reached an agreement to extend the Nike kit deal for another eight years, until 2034.
Today's news comes as a bit of a surprise after there were pretty strong rumors linking the likes of Adidas and Puma with the France deal, especially with Nike already investing heavily in the Germany contract.
The previous deal, which started in 2011 and would have expired in 2026, gets extended until at least 2034. Nike will outfit all French national teams, including men's and women's youth national teams, as well as amateur football and referees.
The decision came after an Executive Committee meeting where Nike's offer was unanimously approved. Nike emerged as the most compelling choice among market players participating in the tender process from March 22 to April 29.
Nike had the following statement: "In fifteen years of partnership between Nike and the FFF, we are proud of what we have achieved together. We look forward to continuing our partnership to serve as a catalyst for growth and investment in amateur football in France, accelerating the growth of women's football at all levels, and further amplifying the FFF as an international icon of performance and style."
Philippe Diallo, President of the French Football Federation, commented: "I am particularly proud and pleased with Nike's renewed confidence in the FFF. The renewal of our partnership and the agreement reached position the FFF among the world's leading sports organisations. When I was elected, I made a commitment to ensure the long-term future of the FFF, in all its dimensions: societal, diversity, development of top-level, women's and amateur football. This partnership with Nike, with whom we share a common vision and objectives, provides us with the means to make an active contribution, at least for the next decade!"
Let's hear your thoughts on Nike continuing as France's kit brand.
