English Soccer Trio Sign New Kit Sponsors

The likes of Milwall and Brighton, who will both be playing in English soccer’s nPower Championship next season after the latter’s promotion this term, have signed new sponsorship deals ahead of the 2011-12 campaign.

Milwall have signed a sponsorship deal with Racing + on a three-year contract which sees the national sports betting newspaper named as main shirt sponsor of the Lions in a deal believed to be worth more than US$500,000 per annum.

They take over from courier firm CYC, Millwall’s kit sponsors for the past three seasons and Millwall chief executive Andy Ambler said: “It is imperative for our club to secure long-term partnerships, especially given the current fragile economic climate. For Millwall to attract a brand with the profile of Racing + shows how far the club has progressed both on and off the pitch. We very much look forward to working with Racing + over the next three years and anticipate developing a hugely successful partnership.”

Mike McLening, commercial director of Racing +, said: I’m delighted to be embarking on this exciting partnership with Millwall and have been impressed by the progress of the club and the positive direction it continues to take. Millwall continues to move forward and I am certain that we can develop a great relationship with the club.”

Meanwhile, newly promoted Brighton & Hove Albion have secured local online jobs specialist, BrightonandHoveJobs.com as their new shirt sponsors for next season in a deal, also estimated at around $500,000 a year.

Club chairman Tony Bloom said: “I am delighted we have yet another high-profile Brighton & Hove company on the shirt and I thank Gary Peters and all at BrightonandHoveJobs.com for their support and sponsorship.”

In addition, English League Two side Gillingham have announced that Medway Electrical and Mechanical Services (MEMS) Power Generation have become kit sponsors and naming rights holders to their Priestfield Stadium.

Both deals will run for three seasons, covering the 2011/12 to 2013/14 campaigns, and are believed to be worth a combined US$200,000 per annum.