The sportswear giant will continue to act as the official outfitter of USOC, providing footwear and apparel for the US Olympic and Paralympic athletes including the medal stand uniform for medal ceremonies during the London 2012, Sochi 2014 and Rio 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Nike first became an official sponsor and licensee of US Olympic and Paralympic teams in 2005 ahead of the 2006 Winter Games in Torino.
Monday’s announcement came after widespread reports last month that the two parties had reached a preliminary agreement over a new contract. Financial details of the new deal have not been disclosed, but reports have indicated that the new arrangement is worth more than the previous contract, which was thought to have generated $15 million for USOC in cash and in-kind services over four years.
“The Olympic Games represent Nike’s core DNA – to provide innovation and inspiration to athletes at the highest level,” said Nike’s general manager of North America, Elliott Hill. “We are proud to support our US athletes and are excited to continue Nike’s partnership with the US Olympic Committee.” Under the terms of the agreement, Nike will also provide the award uniforms for the 2014 and 2016 US Youth Olympic teams and the 2015 US Pan American and Parapan American teams.
USOC chief executive officer Scott Blackmun added: “We are proud to extend our partnership with Nike through 2016, a company that brings innovation to athletes the world over. Nike’s skill at developing performance-driven apparel and footwear has been instrumental in equipping US Olympians and Paralympians as they strive to reach the pinnacle in athletic excellence.”
Nike is also an official partner of a number of national governing bodies in North America, including USA Archery, USA Basketball, USA Canoe/Kayak, US Modern Pentathlon, US Soccer Federation, USA Taekwondo and USA Track & Field.
