Mercedes step forward with Puma

The Mercedes Formula One motor racing outfit has announced a multi-year extension to its team supplier partnership with German sportswear giant Puma.

Effective from January 2015, Puma becomes the official supplier of technical clothing and footwear to Mercedes and an official licensee of footwear, apparel and accessories for the team.

Puma-owned sports merchandise company Brandon will benefit from extended licence rights to team replica and fan products.

Mercedes first teamed-up with Puma in 2012. The terms of the duo’s latest agreement were not disclosed.

Head of Mercedes-Benz Motorsport, Toto Wolff, said: “Puma has been a key performance partner for the three seasons we have now worked together, ensuring our drivers are outfitted in the lightest and most innovative performance race wear. As a licensed partner, Puma has excellent capabilities of designing, developing and distributing high quality products that carry our brand identity.”

Mercedes drivers Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg are locked in a battle for the Formula One drivers’ championship with the team having already secured the 2014 constructors’ title.