By David Gold
September 4 – The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has agreed deals to extend partnerships with Compass and Dolce & Gabbana in a boost to the national team.
Consumer credit group Compass agreed a deal to back the Italian national team through to the 2014 World Cup, as well as next year’s European Championships, for which they are on the brink of qualifying.
To mark the deal, the Italian firm has launched a national team themed credit card – Carta Viva Azzurra.
Compass’s director of marketing and partnerships, Roberto Ferrari, said: “With enthusiasm we continue for another four years our partnership with the Italian national team and for this we thank the Italian Football Federation for confirming us as a top sponsor.
“For Compass to accompany the adventure of the national team on the occasion of the next European Championship and World Cup represents a privilege and a great opportunity to align itself with the passions and dreams of Italians.”
Meanwhile, fashion giant Dolce & Gabbana has also pledged to continue supplying formalwear to the national team until Brazil 2014, strengthening a partnership that dates back to the 2006 World Cup, which the Azzurri won.
The national team is currently going through a transitional phase under coach Cesare Prandelli following last year’s disastrous World Cup campaign, when the then holders of the competition finished below New Zealand in their group.
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