Nike Confirms Major Deal with Rory McIlroy

Nike have finally confirmed they have signed a major sponsorship deal with the world’s No. 1 golfer Rory McIlroy to a multi-year deal.

He will now be branded with the famous Swoosh on his clubs, ball, footwear, glove, apparel, headwear and accessories.

“I chose Nike for a number of reasons,” McIlroy said in a release, “It’s a company and a brand that really resonates with me. It’s young. It’s athletic. It’s innovative. They are committed to being the best, as am I. Signing with Nike is another step towards living out my dream.”

Financial details have not been released, but several reports have said the new deal is in the neighborhood of $200 million to $250 million over 10 years. If the deal with Nike is confirmed at $250 million, it would be the most lucrative endorsement ever negotiated in golf.

The 23-year-old Ulsterman makes his 2013 debut Thursday in the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship, where he is likely to be paired with fellow Nike player and former No. 1 Tiger Woods. Last year, McIlroy cemented his position as the top golfer in the world when he won five titles worldwide, including his second major championship at the PGA Championship. He also won money titles on the PGA Tour and European Tour, and he was voted Player of the Year on both sides of the Atlantic.

McIlroy will be playing with the world’s first high speed cavity back driver that conforms to USGA and R&A Rules — the Nike VR_S Covert.

“The new VR_S Covert driver is completely different,” McIlroy said “It’s striking, it looks cool and it performs unbelievably well.”

Rounding out McIlroy’s Nike Golf arsenal are the Nike VR Pro Limited Edition fairway woods, Nike VR Pro Blade irons, Nike VR Pro wedges and a Nike Method prototype putter. McIlroy will play with Nike’s new 20XI golf ball. He will wear Nike apparel and the new Nike Lunar Control footwear.

McIlroy is making his first manufacturer change during his six-year career as a tour professional.

“To be honest, I’ve been blown away by the attention to detail when it comes to product,” McIlroy said. “Nike is clearly committed to being the best and that gives me a lot of confidence in what we can achieve together on the golf course.”

Cindy Davis, president of Nike Golf, was in Abu Dhabi for the announcement.

“Rory is an extraordinary athlete who creates enormous excitement with his on-course performance while, at the same time, connecting with fans everywhere,” she said. “He is the epitome of a Nike athlete.”

Rupert Pratt, Managing Director of sponsorship consultancy, Generate Sponsorship, told iSportconnect: “This is a real statement of intent from the brand who already have a number of high profile partnerships in golf across the world, including a multi-million dollar deal with Tiger Woods. With this latest deal it seems that Nike have identified golf as an area for significant growth within their product range and Rory is their man to lead that charge.

“McIlroy is without doubt the flavour of the month in the golfing world and he has all the potential to become one of the greats – although Nike have taken a measured gamble with the longevity of the partnership.”

“This deal is fantastic news for McIlroy and his team although it has come at some cost as he has lost longstanding and loyal supporters / relationships.”

McIlroy has lost partnerships with Titleist, Jumeirah and Oakley has brought a lawsuit against the Northern Irishman over their contract with him.

Have your say in our discussion >>

Lotus F1 Ink Clothing Deal with Henri-Lloyd

Leading British marine clothing & lifestyle apparel specialists Henri-Lloyd have secured a new partnership with Lotus F1 Team, story with a new range of travel clothing for the team and consumers.

The relationship will see Lotus F1 Team personnel wearing Henri-Lloyd clothing whilst travelling as well as a Lotus F1 Team range of travel clothing being launched, available in Henri-Lloyd stores and to team partners.

The partnership will continue to expand over the coming seasons to see Henri-Lloyd take advantage of Lotus F1 Team’s business and marketing channel as Henri-Lloyd looks to develop new markets.

Eric Boullier, Team Principal, Lotus F1 Team, said: “Henri-Lloyd is a fantastic brand which shares the same passion and ambition as Lotus F1 Team. That our distinctive colours will be represented in the high streets with a quality range of clothing is great for the team, great for Henri-Lloyd and great for discerning consumers. The long journey to Melbourne for the first race of the season will be all the more stylish for us. We look forward to growing this partnership over the coming years.”

Paul Strzelecki, Joint Chief Executive of Henri-Lloyd, added: “We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Lotus F1 Team, a team that reflects our proud British heritage, product technology and innovation. We are very excited about our future together and wish the team every success in the 2013 season.”

Verivox to Title Sponsor 2013 FIS Team Tour

Verivox.de have agreed a deal to title sponsor the 2013 FIS Team Tour.

The sponsorship package brokered by SPORTFIVE secures the largest independent comparison website a comprehensive advertising presence, abortion ranging from the starting wall above the exit gate to the awards ceremony.

The “Verivox.de FIS Team Tour” takes place from 8 to 17 February 2013 (February 8 to 10) with the three German venues Willingen, ambulance Klingenthal (12-13. February) and Oberstdorf (February 15 to 17) for the fifth time.Within about a week, there are five high-profile World Cup competitions in ski jumping and ski flying, to the athletes, coaches and fans alike happy. The appeal of the FIS Team Tour is in the mix of team and individual competitions.

“Individual class and team spirit are the values ??that play an important role for Verivox. Verivox wants to promote its sponsorship commitments therefore excellence are taken into account. Against this background, the FIS Team Tour ski jumping is a winter sport,” said Peter Dürr, Executive Vice President at Verivox.

The customers of Verivox not only show great interest for the lowest energy and telecommunications tariffs or financial services, but are also very interested in popular sports. “Our core target homeowners, landlords and energy saver inspired above average for the popular ski jumping” says Dürr.

“Energy and winter sports – that fits together well. And energy costs are more than ever a topical issue.Therefore it is only logical that Verivox the title sponsor of the FIS Team Tour for itself and its communication uses and so the awareness levels and increase click rates by Verivox.de further underlines this,” added Philipp Hasenbein, managing director of SPORTFIVE.

Bank of the West Seals Presenting Sponsorship of Rahlves’ Banzai Tour

Bank of the West has signed on as the presenting sponsor of Rahlves’ Banzai Tour, a downhill ski and snowboard event created by Daron Rahlves , the most decorated American downhill and Super G skier in U.S. history.

The tour spans four weekends from February 2 – March 10 at four of Tahoe’s premier resorts.

“We’re pleased to be a part of an exciting local event that draws professional and amateur skiers and snowboarders and fans from around the country to the Tahoe-Reno area,” said Kevin LeVezu , regional business banking manager at Bank of the West. “Not only is Daron Rahlves an incredible athlete and inspiration to those in the sport, he’s also a member of our tight-knit community. We’re proud to support local businesses and entrepreneurs who are contributing to the economy and quality of life in the region.”

Rahlves’ Banzai Tour is a unique race in that athletes compete four at a time, head-to-head on an un-groomed, natural terrain course. Winners from each stop advance to the Sugar Bowl Super Final race to compete against Rahlves. Rahlves, a Truckee resident, is a former World Champion, 12-time World Cup winner, X-Games gold medalist and four-time Olympic skier.

“Spectators and all levels of skiers and snowboarders come out to watch this spirited race and to witness great technical skill and daring on the course,” said Daron Rahlves . “We’re expecting a great turn out at all the stops. The resorts have been booked out and we’re seeing incredible conditions for everyone coming out to enjoy the area. The skiing’s amazing right now.”

Jewson Ends Long-Term Sponsorship of Gloucester Rugby

Jewson one of UK’s leading supplier of sustainable timber and building materials has announced it has ended one of the longest running sponsorships in rugby with Gloucester Rugby.

Jewson joined forces with Gloucester, medstore as the Aviva Premiership club prepared to unveil its magnificent new South Stand, now called the Mira Showers Stand, in time for the 2007-8 season.

The ensuing years have seen the partnership go from strength to strength, as Gloucester have enjoyed one of the most exciting periods in their history, with the Jewson logo proudly adorning the players’ shirts.

Jewson have also been an integral part of the match day experience at Kingsholm, through initiatives such as the Jewson Crossbar Challenge and Jewson Match Day Camps for young rugby supporters.

The first Jewson branch opened in 1836, and Gloucester Rugby were delighted to help promote Jewson’s 175thanniversary in 2011 by featuring in a celebratory rugby film which gained viral status online with over 200,000 viewings.

However, Gloucester’s new Managing Director, Stephen Vaughan, today confirmed that Jewson will not be renewing their sponsorship at the end of 2012-13.

“Jewson have been fantastic partners for us here at Gloucester Rugby over the past six seasons. They’ve been terrific to work with, and played a big role in the club’s development in recent times

“Although it’s sad that they will no longer be our main sponsor from next season, we’re parting on good terms and wish them every success in the future.”

Vaughan confirmed that negotiations are already underway with several potential new main sponsors, and that it’s a good time for interested parties to become involved with the club.

“Gloucester Rugby is one of the most famous clubs in rugby union, and we’re in a strong position on and off the field.

“Nigel Davies and the squad are delivering a strong season on the pitch, and I’m delighted to report that things are looking good for the club commercially as well.

“We are about to unveil financials which show that we have increased our profit year on year, and we’re one of only three Aviva Premiership clubs whose attendances have risen this season.

“We are also still in the running to host fixtures in Rugby World Cup 2015, the only rugby union club ground on the long list, and have successfully hosted a number of international fixtures here at Kingsholm in recent times.

“The future here at Gloucester Rugby is very bright indeed.”

Precision Goalkeeping to Supply Gloves for Northern Ireland’s Alan Blayney

Linfield and Northern Ireland keeper Alan Blayney became the first goalkeeper to wear the Precision Goalkeeping gloves in a Danske Bank Premiershipafter agreeing to a new deal.

Blayney, no rx Linfield’s vice captain, will be wearing the Schmeichology Negative contact glove as Linfield attempt to win the double again this season.

Northern Ireland international, Blayney, commented; “I am delighted to join the Precision Goalkeeping stable and look forward to a great partnership.

“Precision Goalkeeping’s reputation precedes them and I have been really impressed with my new gloves.”

David Sanderson, brand and marketing director at Precision Goalkeeping, commented: “Signing Alan is a great way to kick off 2013 and we are very pleased to add another international goalkeeper to our stable.

“Securing our first Northern Ireland based goalkeeper is also a significant step for the brand and we are looking forward to another year of growth in 2013.”

The Precision Goalkeeping stable includes Kasper Schmeichel, Kieren Westwood, Frank Fielding, Andy Lonergan, Scott Loach, David Forde, Darren Randolph, Brian Jensen, Robert Olejnik, Ian McLoughlin, Trevor Carson and Republic of Ireland goalkeeping coach and former International Alan Kelly.

Under Armour Sign Upcoming Golfer Jordan Spieth to Brand Roster

Under Armour, the Baltimore, MD-based leader in sports performance apparel, footwear and accessories announced today that recently turned professional golfer, Jordan Spieth, will join the Brand’s roster of elite athletes.

The 2011-2012 Big 12 Player of the Year and first-team All-American will be included in a national advertising and in-store campaign starting in 2013. Under Armour continues to support the next generation of athletes and will design a head-to-toe look for Spieth.

“Jordan is a talented young athlete whose promising career is just getting started,” said Matt Mirchin, Senior Vice President, Global Brand and Sports Marketing, Under Armour. “We’re proud to add Jordan to our strong team of athletes as we continue to grow our brand globally and expand in the sport of golf.”

Spieth led the University of Texas Longhorns to a 2012 NCAA Championship and also earned himself low amateur honors at last year’s US Open at The Olympic Club. In total, he has made the cut in 6 of the 8 professional events he’s played as an amateur, including putting himself in contention to win the 2010 HP Byron Nelson Championship while only 16 years old.

Spieth is one of two players to win multiple US Junior Amateur titles (2009 and 2011) and was selected to the 2011 Walker Cup team where he earned an undefeated record. Spieth, who turned professional last month, will play this season via sponsor exemptions and qualifiers on the PGA Tour and Web.com Tour. Spieth has already received invitations to play the AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am, the Puerto Rico Open and the Panama Claro Championship.

“Throughout my athletic career I’ve worn Under Armour products and have always been impressed with how well their technology performs both on and off the course,” Spieth said. “It’s an honor to represent the Under Armour brand and join their roster of world-class athletes.”

Seven Network Secures Landmark Deal for Australia’s Major Horse Races

The Seven Network has announced a landmark agreement which will see it cover all of Australia’s major horse races live.

In addition to Seven’s coverage of the Melbourne Cup Carnival, the network has been announced as the broadcast television partner for the BMW Sydney Racing Carnival, and the Spring Racing Carnival in Melbourne.

Coverage of the BMW Sydney Racing Carnival will include The Golden Slipper, while the Spring Racing Carnival includes the Caulfield Cup and Cox Plate.

In a press release today, Seven called the announcement of all major horse races on one network “a first for broadcast television in Australia”.

“This is a great day for Australian racing and a great day for Seven – all the big events live and available to all Australians” said Tim Worner, Seven’s chief executive.

“Live sport is a key part of Seven’s strategy and we look forward with great excitement to 2013 – when at times there will be live sport on all three of our channels simultaneously.” said Worner. “It is a great business outcome for Seven and a great breakthrough for viewers.”

Seven gained the rights to broadcast the Melbourne Cup in 2002, after over two decades of the iconic race being screened on rival Network Ten.

Tecnifibre to Sponsor ATP

Leading tennis equipment manufacturer Tecnifibre have secured a partnership with the ATP by becoming the Official Partner of the ATP World Tour.

The Paris-based global manufacturer will provide the Official Racquet, see String, Bag and Accessories of the ATP World Tour, as well as becoming an official sponsor of the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals, through 2017.

As part of the agreement, ATP players will have access to Tecnifibre’s wide range of high quality products, including a bespoke new product line. The partnership will also see the launch of a new “On the Road to the ATP World Tour” programme, a promotional initiative targeted towards a younger generation of both players and fans. 

Current ATP World No. 9 Janko Tipsarevic will become a programme ambassador, serving as a mentor to four selected Tecnifibre Junior Team players who will be ‘On the Road to the ATP World Tour’. The programme will be brought to life through a new section on ATPWorldTour.com, giving fans an opportunity to interact and share experiences with players as they strive for success on the ATP World Tour.

Brad Drewett, ATP Executive Chairman & President, said: “Tecnifibre is a fantastic brand with a long history in tennis, and we look forward to working together over the next five years as we implement a meaningful and mutually beneficial partnership, in particular focusing on targeting a younger generation of players and fans.”

Thierry Maissant, CEO, Tecnifibre, said: “Nobody was born a top player. Tecnifibre and the ATP are joining efforts to inspire a new generation of players, to motivate them to become better tennis players. 

“As the market leader for producing technical equipment for tennis players, and now with the backing of the ATP, we have developed a unique range of products which we are extremely proud of. Janko, our team leader, has already adopted these new products for the 2013 season. We look forward to a successful partnership,” said Maissant.

Tony Jacklin Expands Glenmorangie Role to Worldwide Ambassador

Glenmorangie, Scotland’s favorite single malt scotch whisky, today announced the expansion of World Hall of Fame golfer Tony Jacklin ‘s role from British to worldwide Brand Ambassador.

In his new position, Jacklin will make guest appearances at events throughout the U.S. and continue to work closely with the brand on several initiatives.

Jacklin, whose illustrious career embodies Glenmorangie’s commitment to perfection, is the most successful British golfer of his generation. He sparked a revival of golf among British youth and ended an 18-year wait for a British victor when he won The Open at Royal Lytham & St. Annes in 1969. Jacklin later served as the most successful European Ryder Cup captain, leading his men to the first European team victory in 28 years in 1985, and to their first-ever victory on American soil in 1987.

Since retiring from tournament play in 2004, Jacklin has become an esteemed golf course designer, developing signature courses worldwide. He notably co-designed with Jack Nicklaus a golf course in Florida called “The Concession” to commemorate  the historic Ryder Cup tie after Nicklaus conceded Jacklin’s two-foot putt on the18th green, halving the match in 1969.

“Tony’s lifetime of tireless determination and pursuit of perfection mirrors the same intensity our craftsmen apply to creating our award-winning spirit. We are honored he is a part of our family,” said Brian Cox , Vice President of Glenmorangie in the U.S.

“I am very proud to be working alongside Glenmorangie, which I have always regarded as a leader in its field,” said Jacklin.

The fastest growing single malt whisky in the U.S., Glenmorangie has received tremendous accolades from the International Wine and Spirits Competition, the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, Jim Murray ‘s Whisky Bible and Wine Enthusiast.

Glenmorangie’s relationship with Jacklin is the brand’s latest initiative to connect aficionados of premium scotch whisky and golf. In 2012, the brand announced its three-year partnership with The Open Championship as the Official Whisky of the venerable major. Glenmorangie will become Official Spirit of The Open this year.