League Agree Coke Deal

Last updated : 01 March 2004 By Luke Thornhill
The deal, described by the league as the largest sponsorship deal in its history, will come into effect next season and sees a host of 'official drinks' - with various brands becoming the official soft drink, official water and official sport drink.

It comes just weeks after Coca-Cola courted controversy at BBC Radio One by sponsoring the UK Top 40 chart.

The League seem more than happy to have various logos plastered over everything, with Chairman Brian Mawhinney describing the deal as a "coup".

He said: "It provides a tremendous boost for League clubs and, on their behalf, it is a great pleasure to welcome Coca-Cola to this partnership
"Attracting a brand of the stature of Coca-Cola is clearly a coup for the League and demonstrates the enduring appeal of our competition.
"Attendances at League games are at their highest levels for 40 years and our clubs play an integral part in their local communities. We look forward to building on that in the coming years."

Coca-Cola Britian president Charlotte Oades said: "We have been investing in the game for over 30 years in this country at all levels from grassroots to international tournaments.
"We are very excited to be associated with the Football League at the heart of English and Welsh domestic football."

This news item was reported by Luke Thornhill, editor of Iron-Bru.net