PepsiCo-owned isotonic drinks brand Gatorade has extended its partnership with the AFL Aussie rules football league.
The new three-year deal will cover the 2017 to 2019 AFL seasons. Gatorade will continue to serve as the official hydration partner of the league.
Gatorade will also become the official hydration partner of the AFL Women’s competition, which launched last month.
Gatorade will work closely with both leagues on health and performance-related initiatives through the Gatorade Sports Science Institute. The GSSI will help educate and advise athletes on the effects of exercise, environment, nutrition and hydration on the body.
Gatorade products will be used by all 18 clubs across both men’s and women’s divisions. The company will also work with brand ambassadors Scott Pendlebury, Gary Ablett and Luke Parker to promote the partnership.
Richard Smikiss, the AFL’s general manager of commercial, said: “Not only does this partnership continue to support us financially in the non-alcoholic beverage category, but it also supports the athletes of Australia’s great game, supplying one of the most scientifically researched and game-tested sports drinks in the world.
“The NAB AFL Women’s partnership comes at a great time, as we make history with the AFLW competition.”