Nike Strikes Again: Strengthens Ties with French Football Federation
Nike continues to score big in the intricate realm of international football attire, defending its terrain against the likes of adidas and PUMA. They've secured yet another win by lengthening their enduring camaraderie with the French Football Federation, offering a power display in the sportswear market.
You might remember, not so long ago, Nike made waves when they swiped from under adidas’ nose, a deal with the DFB for the 2027-34 period. This signified the end of one of the most longstanding kit ties in the football universe and sparked chatter of adidas conjuring a payback plot. The gossip machines went into overdrive come March, when the French Football Federation floated the idea of a new kit and gear supplier tender for the next octennial contract period. Many anticipated this to be the golden chance for adidas - where they would retaliate and snatch one of Nike’s prime international federations.
After all, Nike and the French Federation have been entwined since 2011. But, as it turns out, Nike had an ace up their sleeve. The French Federation recently declared that Nike will persist as the official gear supplier for the seasons spanning 2026/2027 through 2033/34. This means, the Nike emblem will continue to grace the outfits of all French teams - from the national to youth squads, for both women and men. Adding a unique twist, they're also incorporating a section dedicated explicitly to amateur football and referees.
A statement from Nike said: “In fifteen years of partnership between Nike and the FFF, we are proud of what we have accomplished 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 performance and style."
In a move geared to foster expansion and stimulate funding in grassroots football across France, the re-energising of women's football at varying levels gets a significant push. As a result, the French Football Federation (FFF) further solidifies its status as an epitome of performance and flair on a global scale.
The Federation's president, Philippe Diallo, expressed his satisfaction and pride in Nike's repeated trust in FFF. “I am particularly proud and happy of Nike’s renewed confidence in the FFF. The renewal of our partnership and the agreement reached position the FFF among the very leading sports organisations in the world. When I was elected, I made a commitment to ensure the sustainability of the FFF, in all its dimensions: societal, diversity, development of high-level practice, women's football and amateur football. This partnership with Nike, with whom we share a common vision and objectives, gives us the means to actively contribute, at least for the next decade!" Diallo affirms.