Nationwide Ends England Sponsorship

Building society Nationwide has confirmed that it is to end its sponsorship of the England national football team, bringing an 11-year association to an end.

The expected announcement leaves the FA with the task of finding a replacement sponsor before the friendly with Hungary on 11th August at Wembley.

It was reported that Nationwide had tabled a £20m offer a year ago to extend the partnership for another four years, but it was turned down by the FA.

Nationwide’s head of sponsorship, Chris Hull, said: ‘I can confirm that Nationwide Building Society will not be renewing its England team sponsorship with The Football Association after the current agreement expires at the end of July 2010.’

Its sponsorship deals with the Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland squads will also halt at the end of July.

Nationwide’s sponsorship with England included branding on all training kit and tickets and signs at home games and training sessions.