Sunderland announce the return of Nike as their kit supplier from next season onwards

Adidas have been the club’s official kit supplier since 2012 but are in the final year of the current deal, and Nike will take over from June 1st.

Nike have a long-standing association with the club and city, having had offices on Wearside since 1982.

They have supplied kits to the club at various intervals since then, including the immensely successful period at the beginning of the century.

Sunderland are believed to have been the first football team in Europe to wear Nike kits in the early 1980s.

Stewart Donald said the partnership, which has been agreed as part of Sunderland’s collaboration with north east based retail outfit Just Sport Pro Club, was ‘incredibly exciting’.

“This is an incredibly exciting deal for the club, and I'm delighted to welcome Nike back to the SAFC family,” he said.

“Our colours and kit are steeped in proud tradition, and we look forward to showing supporters our bespoke designs ahead of the 2020-21 season.

“Nike's presence is already woven into the fabric of our club, and indeed within sport around the globe, and they are renowned for innovation and excellence.

“We look forward to collaborating with them throughout what is sure to be a successful partnership.”

Ducan Marlins, senior director for Nike TEAM, said: “We are extremely excited and proud to be partnering up with Sunderland AFC again.

“Sunderland itself is an important location within Nile's history in the UK, with offices still based within the city.

“We look forward to an amazing partnership with the club and delivering amazing products for the fans.”

Mike Heslop, sales director for Just Sport Pro Club, said: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to work with Sunderland AFC in what we hope will be a long and successful partnership.

“Being based in the north east, we are well aware of the rich history of the club and its passionate fan base. We are sure the fans will love the new Nike kits and training wear.”