FORT MILL, S.C. (May 8, 2013) — Continental Tire the Americas L.L.C. will become the official sponsor and official tire of U.S. Soccer's Men's, Women's and Youth National Teams, in addition to extending its agreement as an official partner and the official tire of Major League Soccer (MLS) in the U.S. and Canada.
Conti's new multi-year partnership with U.S. Soccer involves supporting the U.S. national teams through the 2014 FIFA World Cup, the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup, the 2016 Olympic Games and a variety of games and tournaments at every age level, the tire maker said. Financial terms were not disclosed.
The MLS partnership includes designation as the official tire of the MLS All-Star Game and MLS Cup, the league's championship game. Conti has been an MLS sponsor since 2010.
"We are proud to extend our relationship with MLS and expand our soccer program in North America to now include U.S. Soccer and our National Teams," said Travis Roffler, director of marketing for Continental Tire. "Our partnership with MLS has been very beneficial. We have been able to expose our Continental brand and its array of high-quality, long-lasting tires to the passionate MLS audience. Soccer fans are like no other type of sports fan and we are pleased that they've been very receptive to our message. Our partnership has produced exceptional results by every measure.
"By adding U.S. Soccer and the U.S. National Teams to our partnership, we will be able to speak to an even larger audience which is extremely positive for our brand," he said. "Continental Tire has a rich history in soccer globally and we're thrilled to continue that tradition here in the U.S. with MLS and U.S. Soccer."
Under the agreement, Conti will retain the right to use MLS, MLS All-Star Game and MLS Cup marks in its advertising and marketing materials at a local and national level. The sponsorship also includes in-stadium signage and activation rights at a specified amount of games.
Conti also will receive exposure on MLSsoccer.com and VIP hospitality suites in select markets.