Sports kits manufacturers, Adidas, has said it would only consider renewing its kitting deal with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) based on the performance of the Super Eagles at the 2010 FIFA World Cup finals.
In other words, it would renew its contract with Nigeria not if it qualifies for the World Cup finals but based on the team’s performance in South Africa.
Nigeria’s contract with the German kitting firm expires immediately after the tournament holding in South Africa in June.
This was disclosed by its Nigeria’s representative, Chris Eseka, to our correspondent, who said the condition is necessary owing to the recent performances of the national teams in international championship.
Eseka said apart from the Olympic team that placed second behind Argentina in the final game of the football event, other teams including Super Eagles have fared below average.
"Every organisation uses a brand to leverage on. And when that brand is a successful one, it is encouraged to continue the partnership. But when the brand is not doing well in the market it is only proper for both parties to part ways," said Eseka.
On Adidas’ relationship with the present NFF leadership, Eseka said there were no frictions as both parties have continued delivering on their promises.
2002 was the last time the Eagles participated in World Cup and it failed to go beyond the first round.
Adidas became attracted to the Nigerian team at the 1994 World Cup finals in USA, following its good outing in its maiden appearance.
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