Aditya ChaudhuriNike and the International Hockey Federation (FIH) have signed a four-year deal, which will see the former provide equipment to the latter’s umpires and officials.
Nike provided equipment at the recently-concluded FIH Hockey Junior World Cup as well as the inaugural FIH Hockey Pro League mini-tournament.
The American company has stated that it shares the common goal of developing youth sport and involving more kids along with the FIH.
Nike, as per the new agreement, will also support the FIH’s work towards growing women’s hockey around the world and build a culture of belonging which welcomes all children.
Tayyab Ikram, President, FIH, said:
“This partnership with Nike is great news for the development of our sport! The brand’s global scale, presence and reputation propels hockey into a dimension that certainly allows us to look to the future with even more optimism. Nike’s commitment to young people and women in particular is perfectly in line with the FIH’s values of gender equality, diversity and inclusion. I am convinced that the signing of this partnership marks the beginning of a long-lasting, fruitful and mutually beneficial collaboration.“
Lidewij Welten, Olympic and World Champion, said:
“I’m thrilled to be part of this exciting journey between Nike and the FIH, as we unite the passion of hockey with the global powerhouse of sports. The fusion of our dynamic sport and the iconic swoosh symbolises a powerful stride forward, ensuring that the heartbeat of hockey resonates worldwide. Together with the FIH, Nike will be able to elevate the game to new heights, inspiring generations with every flick, dribble, and goal.“
Pien Sanders, Olympic and World Champion, said:
“It’s a very nice progression for the FIH to work with such a big brand and so together we can take hockey to the next level and make the sport bigger. Nike makes sure, first of all, that I can practise my sport with the best sports gear, but in addition, Nike also makes sure that every athlete can express themselves however they want. As long as you can be yourself, you can also deliver everything for the sport you play.“
