Mobile telecommunications provider 3 has been confirmed as the new sponsor of the Irish international football squads, replacing the FAI’s long-time commercial backer Eircom.
The four-year deal worth €7.5 million will officially begin on August 11th when Ireland take on Argentina in a friendly at the Aviva Stadium on Lansdowne Road.
3 will also work with “football at grassroots level involving clubs and leagues up and down the country,” a statement released this afternoon read.
Robert Finnegan, chief executive of 3, revealed there will be “priority ticket bookings for 3 customers” in the future.
“This announcement officially confirms 3 as Irish football’s biggest fan and the number one network for all supporters. We hope football fans will not only cheer on our boys in green but will support their new sponsor by switching to 3,” he added.
FAI chief executive John Delaney welcomed the “new and dynamic brand” on board.
“This is significant sponsorship which is structured to reach out as never before to engage with grassroots football and all the strands of the game that we represent,” he said. “It is a significant investment in the future of Irish football, particularly in light of the current economic climate.”
Over 10 years Eircom are believed to have spent €20 million supporting the FAI.