LA Galaxy has enhanced its status as the commercial powerhouse of Major League Soccer (MLS) by agreeing a league-record shirt sponsorship extension with Herbalife, reports SportBusiness.. The new 10-year deal, announced on Friday, will be worth over US$44 million to the Galaxy, making it the single largest and longest sponsorship agreement for an MLS club in league history.
The global nutrition company will continue as the official presenting sponsor and jersey sponsor of the Los Angeles club.
Tim Leiweke, CEO of Galaxy's owners Anschutz Entertainment Group, said the Herbalife extension is another sign of the growth of MLS in the American commercial market.
"For them to renew their partnership for this extended length is a tremendous mutual reward for both of us and a demonstration of their belief and faith in MLS. To have this kind of stability and strength in a partnership that will take us into the next decade is refreshing for the sports industry."
Michael O. Johnson, Herbalife's chairman and CEO, added: "We made our first commitment to the LA Galaxy and MLS more than five years ago and we are delighted to carry on by committing to a long-term relationship. We continue to believe in the global appeal of the club, and the sport of soccer, to promote a healthy, active life.
"The LA Galaxy have created much excitement for the sport among soccer fans and among our independent distributors around the world." "Herbalife bet on the Galaxy six years ago and now MLS has exploded in popularity and growth," he said.
