SHANGHAI: The League of Legends announced Thursday that global apparel giant Nike has agreed to become the official apparel and footwear partner for all the 16 teams in its Pro League (LPL) in China. It is one of the 13 premier regional leagues that qualify teams for major global events like the upcoming Mid-Season Invitational and the League of Legends World Championship.
As part of the agreement, Nike will continue to explore new ways to serve eSports athletes through research and customised physical training programs. LPL athletes will be equipped with an all-new team kit ahead of the 2019 World Championships. LPL fans also will be able to get in on the action with a full range of new fan gear.
“eSports athletes share the same determination and competitive spirit as all athletes, they spend their lives preparing for intense competition, working relentlessly to improve their reflexes, coordination, vision, mentality and teamwork,” Nike China CMO Eric Wei stated.
“We are very excited to support LPL teams and players with ground-breaking eSports game-day gear and training programs that will help unleash their full potential.”
“Our unprecedented partnership with Nike will enable LPL teams and players to continue to shine on the world stage,” TJ Sports (the joint venture between Tencent and Riot Games that manages and operates the LPL) co-CEO Leo Lin added.
“eSports is a digital sport and our collaboration with Nike will push it to new heights.
“Having such an iconic sports brand partner with one of our 13 premier leagues is a major step in elevating our sport. Nike is one of the most recognisable athletic brands in the world and we’re excited to have them support our competitions and pro players.”
