Carling has signed a three-year deal with the Irish Football Association (IFA) for the title sponsorship of Irish football’s top-tier Premiership.
The beer manufacturer will pay £80,000 annually, making it the biggest financial investment in Irish League history. Under the deal, Carling will also provide marketing support to boost interest in the local game and increase attendances.
The Irish FA began a title sponsor search for next season onwards after sportswear manufacturer JJB Sports decided not to extend its one-year deal.
"Carling is a brand with a fantastic football pedigree and one that's done so much for the sport," said IFA president Raymond Kennedy.
"We are confident that the brand will be more than just a title sponsor and we welcome their input and assistance in helping us to develop not only the Premiership but football in Northern Ireland. We'd like to wish all 12 teams the best of luck for the coming season and look forward to celebrating with the winners of the first Carling Premiership next May."
JJB Sports will remain as Irish Cup sponsor for another two seasons and bookmaker Ladbrokes will continue to sponsor the Irish League Championship.
