Canada Soccer announced that Nike will become the official footwear, apparel and equipment supplier for Canada Soccer and its Men's and Women's National Teams at every level starting in January 2019.
"This watershed moment for Canada Soccer is further proof that Canada is a leading soccer nation," said Steven Reed, Canada Soccer President. "This new agreement provides recognition of the accelerated advancement of the sport in our country that has been fuelled by our successful hosting of major international competitions including the most recent record-setting FIFA Women's World Cup Canada 2015™ from coast to coast."
This announcement is a culmination of an incredible period of growth for the sport in Canada both on and off the pitch. Since the FIFA U-20 World Cup Canada 2007 was held in six Canadian cities, the sport has established itself as a nation builder with Canada Soccer at the forefront of that development.
The strong momentum continued through 2018 with the milestone announcement that Canada Soccer had won the right, alongside neighbours Mexico and the United States, to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup™. On the pitch, the Women's National Team qualified for its seventh FIFA Women's World Cup™, the Men's National Team went undefeated, and the Women's National U-17 Team made history at the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup Uruguay 2018 by equalling a best-ever fourth place finish for any National Team at a FIFA competition.
"It's an exciting time for Canada and soccer fans in our country as we see all of our Canadian teams earning success on the pitch. As we look to continue this evolution, our collaboration with a world-class brand like Nike will only fuel the anticipation, excitement and unity that the sport will have as we prepare to welcome the world in 2026," said Peter Montopoli, General Secretary, Canada Soccer.
The announcement was accompanied by the release of an inspirational video produced by Canada Soccer which was shared with the Canadian and international football community. 2018 Canadian Players of the Year and Nike athletes - Christine Sinclair and Alphonso Davies - are featured in the inspirational spot which focusses on overcoming.
"I love playing for Canada and am honoured to wear the badge for our country. Canada welcomed my family and I can't wait to say thank you by wearing the maple leaf alongside the Nike swoosh," said 2018 Canadian Player of the Year and member, Canada Soccer Men's National Team, Alphonso Davies.