"On behalf of everyone at West Ham United I’d like to welcome MRF to our family of partners."
Cricket fans will likely be familiar with the brand MRF Tyres. The Indian tyre company has become famous for sponsoring many cricket legends, such as Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli.
However, the brand now looks to expand its horizons, with a keen eye on football. Three Premier League clubs have revealed that MRF Tyres will now partner with them.
On 8th September 2017, the three clubs took to social media to make the announcement. MRF Tyres will become the sleeve sponsor for both West Ham United and Newcastle United. Both these clubs will feature the company’s logo on the left sleeve of their uniform.
Meanwhile, it will also become the official tyre partner for West Bromwich Albion.
All three clubs appeared delighted in revealing the news, particularly West Ham United and Newcastle United. The Indian tyre brand will serve as both clubs’ first sleeve sponsor. West Ham’s Vice-Chairman Karren Brady said:
“On behalf of everyone at West Ham United I’d like to welcome MRF to our family of partners. MRF join us at an important time in our history as we embark on our second season at London Stadium and look to grow as a club on and off the pitch.
“West Ham’s shirt sleeve provides an excellent opportunity for MRF to gain enormous exposure in the most watched league in world football and we look forward to working with them throughout the season.”
West Ham United are delighted to announce @MRFWorldwide as our first ever sleeve sponsor! https://t.co/j9kBDM5rL9
— West Ham United (@WestHam) September 8, 2017
Newcastle United’s managing director, Lee Charnley also spoke on behalf of his club, adding:
“I am delighted to welcome MRF as the club’s first shirt sleeve partner. MRF is a hugely respected global brand and a market leader in a territory where a passion for football is continuing to grow.
“The partnership is a great fit for Newcastle United and we look forward to building our relationship and assisting MRF in growth both domestically and internationally.”
Introducing Newcastle United's new shirt sleeve sponsor, @MRFWorldwide!
Full story: https://t.co/aPvU8KtHEn #NUFC #125YearsUnited pic.twitter.com/csQOSjqvn8
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) September 8, 2017
West Bromwich Albion also revealed on their website that MRF Tyres will receive rights in its role of official tyre partner. The company will have the right to branding and pitch side LED at The Hawthorns, the club’s stadium. They will also have access to the club’s digital media channels.
This fantastic news marks the latest step in MRF Tyres’ long history. Founded in 1946, it has become the largest tyre manufacturer in India.
While it makes high-quality tyres, the brand has made many partnerships in the cricketing world. From hailing as the bat sponsor to Sachin Tendulkar to enjoying endorsements with AB de Villiers and Shikar Dhawan.
Now the company will hope to achieve similar success with the football clubs. Particularly in the Premier League 2017/18 season.