A huge partnership has been announced between the FAI and Sky for the Republic of Ireland Women's National Team.
Sky have signed on to a four-year deal to see them act as a sponsor to the team, and also broadcast their games for the upcoming qualification for the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup and 2025 UEFA Women's Championship.
It's the first ever stand-alone primary partnership for the Republic of Ireland Women, and comes a week after the FAI announced an equal pay agreement between the men's and women's sides.
Vera Pauw's side have a busy few weeks ahead as they welcome Australia to Tallaght Stadium on Tuesday, 21st September and then host Sweden in World Cup qualifying a month later.
Pauw spoke about the deal. "The significance of this partnership announcement is testament to the dedication of every one of the players and backroom staff members for what they continue to achieve, on and off the pitch."
"The support of a brand like Sky, as we turn our focus to the 2023 FIFA World Cup, is hugely exciting. Everyone involved with the Ireland squad are thrilled to welcome Sky to our team, and we look forward to working with them.”
IT’S OFFICIAL 🇮🇪
A historic day for FAI as we announce @SkyIreland as the first-ever, stand-alone Primary Partner of the Republic of Ireland WNT ☘️
Come On You Girls In Green!
#SkyWNT | #COYGIG | #WeAreOne pic.twitter.com/nLJEXHmeTg— FAIreland ⚽️🇮🇪 (@FAIreland) September 9, 2021
FAI CEO Jonathan Hill also spoke about the agreement. "This is yet another really positive step forward for women’s and girls’ football in Ireland and comes on the back of our historic announcement on equal pay last week."
"Football for women and girls is a core focus within our FAI Strategy and this truly is a landmark announcement for the FAI. Partnerships like this are exactly what will help us to grow the women’s game."
It's a huge endorsement for the Republic of Ireland Women's team, who will be looking to make their first major tournament in World Cup qualifying for 2023.
The Republic of Ireland were drawn with Sweden, Finland, Slovakia and Georgia in Group A. Top seed Sweden were Olympic silver medalists this summer.
Their game with Georgia was rescheduled this week to next summer. It was due to take place on Friday the 17th of September.
The FAI asked the Georgian Football Federation and UEFA for the fixture change due to several of their UK players being unable to play.
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