Nike Replaces Umbro As England Kit Supplier

Nike and The Football Association have announced a new partnership that will see the sports company design and create the kits for men and women’s England teams at every level, replacing long-term partners Umbro, with the first England kits to bear the Nike Swoosh launched in Spring 2013. 

The partnership will run until July 2018 and represents a substantial investment, which reportedly will be reinvested by The FA back into the game across all levels, from the senior team to grassroots.

The new deal with Nike brings a 60-year association with Umbro to an end. England’s kits have been made by Umbro since 1952, with the exception of 1974 to 1983, when Admiral had the contract.

The partnership includes the supply of kit and match balls to all of Club England’s 24 football teams at every level, including the men’s national teams, women’s, Futsal, disability and amateur.

Nike will sponsor and support St George’s Park, the home of the National Football Centre in Burton-upon-Trent, as well as Wembley Stadium.

As part of the partnership Nike will also becoming the supporting partner for The FA Cup, supplying match balls for games at each level of the club cup competition.

‘The pride and passion of England fans is renowned throughout the football world and we are delighted to partner with The FA’, said Nike Brand President Charlie Denson. ‘We look forward to supporting England teams at every level with innovative product technology and playing our part to help develop the future of English football through our support of St George’s Park.’

The Football Association General Secretary Alex Horne said: ‘I am delighted that The FA has secured this new wide-ranging and comprehensive partnership with Nike.  It is an extremely exciting time for both parties with the opening of St George’s Park this year and The FA’s 150th anniversary in 2013.’

Umbro, the current England kit supplier, was bought by Nike in 2008, although it was reported earlier this year that it could sell the brand.

Horne added: ‘I would also like to place on record our gratitude to Umbro and their significant contribution to the game, The FA and England teams, over a 60-year period.’

Nike will also take over from Umbro as the partner of title winners Manchester City at the end of the 2012/13 season.