Football Australia and Nike have further cemented their partnership, announcing a 10-year contract extension. This strategic alliance marks the longest in Nike‘s history with Australian federation and club partnerships, stretching into a noteworthy third decade.
This renewed partnership is a continuation of previous efforts but also an elevation of commitment from both entities. Nike’s pledge extends beyond supporting Australia’s elite national teams. It encompasses a significant investment in Football Australia’s grassroots initiatives and inclusivity programs. This includes a special focus on the Legacy ’23 strategy, a visionary plan aimed at amplifying women’s football access and participation across the nation.
Legacy ’23, it’s a blueprint for lasting change. This initiative by Football Australia leverages the momentum of women’s football, setting sights on becoming the first community sport in Australia to achieve gender parity in participation. A portion of Nike’s investment is earmarked specifically for Legacy ’23, ensuring the impact of this year’s major football events transcends into a sustainable and transformative legacy.
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James Johnson, CEO of Football Australia, expressed his enthusiasm about the extension, stating, “This extension with Nike is a pivotal moment for Australian football. It solidifies Nike’s commitment to our national teams, and provides significant resources for the growth of grassroots football and our ambitious Legacy ’23 plan to inspire the next generation of female footballers.“
Under this partnership, Nike remains the official apparel partner for all Australian national teams, including the Junior and Youth men’s and women’s squads. The collaboration signifies more than just high-performance gear; it embodies a shared vision of elevating the sport at every level.
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Steph Catley, Nike athlete and vice-captain of the CommBank Matildas, reflects on this partnership, “Not only does Nike’s innovative high-performance gear allow us to perform our best on the field, but their unwavering commitment to build the game, invest in us as athletes and broaden access for the next generation of players and fans plays a pivotal role in driving the sport forward. We are thrilled to continue working with them and look forward to the exciting journey ahead.“
The future looks bright for Football Australia and Nike. Together, they are set to empower players from grassroots to the global stage, inspiring a new wave of Australian footballers. This alliance is not just about sponsorship but a shared commitment to growing the game at every level, exemplified by initiatives like the Nike FC Accelerator Program in partnership with Football Victoria. This four-year commitment supports female football participation through access to certified coaching, world-class facilities, and more.
Globally, Nike’s investment in football spans various initiatives, from designing national team kits to fostering professional women’s leagues in Mexico, to creating accessible community spaces like SHAPA Soweto in South Africa. This global approach, coupled with local investments, underscores the depth of Nike’s commitment to the sport but also its wider community.