NWSL Extends Partnership With Nike
The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) inked a long-term extension with Nike, which will run through the end of 2030. Nike, a founding partner of the NWSL in 2012, previously extended their partnership in 2019.
The deal is vital to the league as it comes in the wake of its commissioners, Lisa Baird’s resignation in October due to a sexual coercion scandal. Having Nike’s continued backing is crucial to the confidence in and continued growth of the league. And, it is said to be the league’s ‘most substantial’ to date.
While no financial terms or specifics surrounding the deal were announced, we know Nike will continue to supply teams with uniforms, equipment, and apparel through the end of 2022.
“Since the beginning, Nike and the NWSL together have driven significant growth of this great game for all, in the US and around the world, and we couldn’t be more excited to extend this foundational partnership well into our second decade of play,” stated Marla Messing, the NWSL’s interim chief executive.
“With this agreement, Nike is showing the world again what it means to support athletes, helping to grow the opportunities available for them to compete, and supporting the NWSL and its athletes in its effort to remain the premier destination for the world’s most elite players.”
The NWSL secured four new national sponsors during 2021 and sports eight brands among its portfolio of partners. In addition to Nike, brands include Budweiser, Mastercard, and Verizon.
On November 20th, the Washington Spirit defeated the Chicago Red Stars to be crowned the NWSL champions. Next season is the tenth for the NWSL.
