The Football Association of Ireland today (November 17) announced that it has signed a new six year commercial partnership agreement with Lucozade Sport, official sports drink sponsor to the FAI and eircom League of Ireland

The agreement starts in 2009 and will significantly increase Lucozade Sport’s sponsorship commitment to Irish football. The agreement will also include supply of product to elite footballers on all national senior and underage teams as well as League of Ireland clubs.

The FAI’s agreement with Lucozade Sport will provide additional benefits to the League of Ireland thanks to a commitment to buy advertising boards at all club grounds and make a significant capital contribution to all Premier Division clubs by providing new dugouts over the duration of the contract.

Welcoming the new agreement, John Delaney, Chief Executive of the FAI said;

“Lucozade Sport has been a very important partner to the FAI since 2002 and I am very happy that they are now renewing and increasing their commitment to our game for the next six years. As official sports drink to the FAI and League of Ireland, they will enjoy unrivalled product placement within Irish sports.”

Speaking at the announcement, Elizabeth Reynolds, General Manager of Lucozade Sports said;

"As Ireland’s number one sports drink, we believe that Lucozade Sport has an obligation to push the boundaries in sports nutrition. To achieve this, we are working closely with top tier sports organisations.

"The FAI play a key role in this strategy, working together to improve the performance of sportsmen and women in the belief that with the right combination of training, diet and coaching, Irish footballers can maximise their potential. We are delighted to be extending our agreement with the FAI until 2014. This is recognition of the strong relationship that has developed between both parties.”