Nike is making its way to Saudi Arabia, aligning with the club that boasts soccer’s biggest ambassador, Cristiano Ronaldo. The brand’s strategic alliance with Al Nassr signals a significant move in the soccer industry.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s transfer to Al Nassr in January 2023 has made waves in Saudi Arabian soccer. His global stature has put the spotlight on the Saudi Pro League, boosting its popularity at home and abroad.
We are delighted to announce Nike, as our official kit supplier for the 2023-24 season ✔️
This deal will be activated starting from AlNassr Japan Tour at the end of July 💛 pic.twitter.com/uDMxfCONxf
— AlNassr FC (@AlNassrFC_EN) July 2, 2023
As the new season approaches, a significant deal is officially announced to elevate Saudi Arabia’s soccer landscape further. The imminent agreement, bolstered by Cristiano Ronaldo’s presence, promises to bring heightened recognition to the soccer world of Saudi Arabia.
Nike has taken up the role of the official kit supplier for the upcoming 2023-24 season, effective from the Al-Nassr Japan Tour at the end of July.
Nike enter Puma and Adidas’ Market in Saudi Arabia
The deal with Al Nassr is the first step by Nike to enter the market in Saudi Arabia. Nike has replaced the homegrown brand, Duneus, as the official kit sponsor for the club, Al-Nassr.
This deal also signifies the return of Nike as the club’s kit supplier. They have previously partnered with Al-Nassr from 1997 to 2001 and from 2010 to 2012.
Al Nassr have had Nike as their kit supplier before; this is nothing new pic.twitter.com/hHbfRpAmAB
— This The Ultimate Fwitter 🇶🇦 (@Issaspambrodie) July 3, 2023
The partnership between Nike and Al-Nassr FC is seen as a strategic move, aiming to showcase the renowned soccer player Cristiano Ronaldo in Nike-sponsored attire. As Nike is already a brand ambassador for Ronaldo, this alliance further strengthens its association with the Portuguese superstar.
The Saudi League has already seen the representation of other major brands like Adidas and Puma. Puma sponsors Al Fayha FC, while Al-Faisaly FC and Ettifaq FC are sponsored by Adidas. (Source: footballkitarchive.com)
Nike’s biggest deal in 2023
The exact figures of the Nike deal with Al Nassr have not been disclosed, but it is unlikely that it will reach the upper echelon of kit deals in soccer. Nike is renowned for offering substantial sums to European elite clubs for their official kit sponsorships.
Paris Saint-Germain’s $87 million per season deal
In 2019, the rising European powerhouse, PSG, secured a highly lucrative partnership with Nike. The club inked a record-breaking deal worth $87 million per season for a duration of 10 years. The agreement encompassed the men’s and women’s soccer teams, along with the handball division of the club.
A history of the PSG x Jordan collab ✨ @brkicks pic.twitter.com/qCEMvk3Zhi
— B/R Football (@brfootball) May 14, 2021
As a result of this collaboration, PSG also engaged in a cross-collaboration with Nike’s Jordan brand, which quickly became a fan favorite during that season. The combination of PSG and the iconic Jordan brand created a unique and stylish appeal for the club’s merchandise.
Liverpool’s $40 million per season deal with Nike
In 2020, Liverpool announced that Nike would become the club’s official kit supplier on a multi-year deal worth around $40 Million per season. The exact duration of the deal is unclear, but deals of this magnitude typically span 8 to 10 years, potentially reaching a total value of up to $500 million including add-ons.
FC Barcelona’s $1.2 billion deal with Nike
FC Barcelona and Nike have a long-standing partnership that began in 1998. The current deal, which runs until 2028, is worth $1.2 billion + add-ons. It is the most lucrative kit deal in soccer history. Nike also manufactures training and casual wear for FC Barcelona.
Liverpool’s new kit deal with Nike mean they now join the list…
Meaning #Mbappe2020 is pretty much inevitable now! 🤑 pic.twitter.com/J6NMminhkk
— 90min (@90min_Football) January 7, 2020
The deal has been a success for both parties. The American brand has benefited from the global reach of FC Barcelona, while the club has received a significant financial boost. The deal has also helped to promote the club’s image around the world.