Chelsea Football Club and adidas today announced an eight-year sponsorship agreement. Under the terms of the agreement, which comes into effect for the 2006/7 season, adidas will become the Official Sportswear Supplier, Official Product Supplier and Official Kit Supplier to Chelsea Football Club as well as a Partner, Club Sponsor and Technical Sponsor.

The partnership is a natural alliance between a leading sports brand and one of Europe’s leading clubs. Chelsea FC will be provided with the latest, most advanced sportswear and joins an exclusive list of clubs who benefit from adidas expertise. The partnership will allow both parties to work together to develop innovative products within an intensely fast moving industry.

“adidas has a policy of working with the very best and we believe Chelsea Football Club represents just that,” said adidas-Salomon CEO Herbert Hainer. “Like adidas, they are a driving force in the game with a long and proud heritage. adidas has a passion for football and we believe that this shared outlook will enable us to build a long and successful partnership.”

Peter Kenyon, Chief Executive, Chelsea Football Club, added: “This partnership is great news for Chelsea and we look forward to working with adidas, whose vision we share. We believe a global partnership with adidas will be a huge step in helping the club achieve its long-term strategic goals. Together we can become a formidable team.”