London, 17 March 2003 – The future of English football was enhanced today, as Pepsi announced a valuable partnership with the Football Association to invest in the rising stars of the nation’s game. As Official FA Partner in the development of Youth Football, Pepsi will provide funding dedicated to supporting the emergence of the David Beckhams’ of the future.
Allied to this, is shared sponsorship of the nation’s ‘Crown Jewels’ – The FA Cup and the England team – providing Pepsi with the platform to be at the heart of the national game for four years, up to and including World Cup 2006. Pepsi joins this groundbreaking partner scheme alongside Carlsberg, Nationwide, Umbro and McDonalds.
As FA Partner in Youth Football, Pepsi will become title sponsors to the FA Youth Cup and FA County Youth Cup. Through this innovative scheme, Pepsi will support the new National Football Centre and the long-term development of football at every level.
‘Investing back in football is a key part of Pepsi’s strategy. We have beneficial alliances with Manchester United and Real Madrid, and strong long-term partnerships with players such as England captain David Beckham,’ commented Karen Goffe, Director of Marketing, Pepsi UK. ‘We are passionate about providing unique experiences and access through these relationships, and believe that this helps establish our position as the number one soft drink in football.’
‘We are delighted to have a brand with the global stature of Pepsi supporting English football,’ said Paul Barber, Director of Marketing and Communications of the Football Association. ‘Their investment will be vital in sustaining the Football Association’s work within the structure of youth football. This is a good day for the nation’s game.’
‘I am pleased for all sorts of reasons that Pepsi is to become an FA sponsor,’ said David Beckham, Captain of the England Football Team. ‘I have worked with them on a personal level for over 5 years and really respect their enthusiasm for football.’
‘Today’s announcement is very important for the future of English football,’ commented England manager Sven Goran Eriksson. ‘Pepsi’s investment in the Football Association will ensure a sound structure for the development of youth talent throughout England.’
2003 will see a series of unique football experiences provided by Pepsi. The campaign kicks off with the ‘OK Corral’ advertising execution, set to launch next month. In the advert, Pepsi brings together some of the world’s greatest football stars including David Beckham and Roberto Carlos thanks to their sponsorship of Manchester United and Real Madrid and individual deals with selected players.
For further information please contact:
Pepsi Press Office
Sarah Pearce/Simon Oliveira
Tel: 020 7611 3655 / 3621
Mobile: 07956 299558 / 07775 740 419