Nike agree multi-year partnership with the WSL in support of the professional women’s game

Nike has strengthened its relationship with women’s football in England by extending its sponsorship of the Barclays Women’s Super League. 

As part of the new five-year deal, the sportswear giant will provide free boots to every player across WSL and Barclays WSL 2 football. With the exception of those already in partnership with another brand for football boots. It is believed that already over two-hundred-and-fifty players have already signed up to the initiative, with the promise of access to sufficient sporting equipment.

For a long time, countless players have been forced to purchase their own footwear and/or equipment, for both training and matches. Clubs failed to over these costs, despite the level of professionalism the game adopted over time. Therefore, this initiative is particularly significant to break down the financial barriers that prevent female footballers from doing what they love for a living, without requiring work or funds from elsewhere. 

This agreement, however, does not stop at boots. Nike will also supply gloves for all goalkeepers competing across the WSL and WSL 2, ensuring that the correct equipment is accessible to anyone involved in the Women’s Professional Game.

Even though Nike were already the provider and sponsor of the official match balls for the WSL and other tournaments, they will continue to do this. This marks a more comprehensive commitment, which reminds us of their partnerships to develop and push the women’s game in the right direction.

The deal reflects the broader growth in women’s football and allows athletes to focus more on performance. Even though it is a subtle move and primarily supportive of the top tiers in English football, it is an important step to closing the gender gap in the sport. Access to top quality equipment has not been an issue for male footballers, and Nike promise to create the same opportunities for the female professionals.

This partnership drives the sport forward and creates a platform for the industry, where female athletes feel supported and appreciated in an industry where they have often avoided the limelight.