Adidas Extends MLS Partnership through 2018

adidas and Major League Soccer today announced an extension to their strategic partnership agreement. The new 8-year partnership, which Sports Business Journal reports is worth $200M, extends adidas' position as the official athletic sponsor and product supplier for the MLS through 2018.

The new partnership will have a heavy focus on youth development and programming.

"The United States is a breeding ground for athletic talent and we need to ensure our homegrown athletes have viable opportunities to play soccer at the highest level," said Patrik Nilsson, president, adidas America. "We need to accelerate the model for soccer development in North America to attract and keep elite talent engaged and excited about professional opportunities in the sport. We share a long-term vision with MLS to develop the game and are excited to foster the next generation of American soccer stars."

adidas has been a partner of MLS since the league's inception in 1996. In 2004, adidas and MLS announced an exclusive partnership agreement that named adidas the official athletic sponsor and product supplier, outfitting all league teams and supplying the league's official match ball.

"One of the major reasons Major League Soccer has become one of the top soccer leagues in the world is due to the support and commitment of adidas," said MLS Commissioner Don Garber. "They have a clear vision for the sport in North America, and they see MLS as a cornerstone of that vision. Our extension with adidas is a major statement by an internationally respected brand that MLS is increasing in value and that our commitments to stadium construction, strategic expansion, player development and improvement in the overall quality of play are playing dividends."